SYMP 6-1 - Reconciling traditional but non-sustainable livestock husbandry practices with modern conservation approaches in an Mediterranean island setting.

Traditional land use on the Aegean Islands (Greece) involves intensive year-around goat and sheep husbandry. Shepherding livestock is woven into the cultural identity of the locals and large livestock flocks are seen as a cause of pride, a hallmark of wealth, and a source of dependable income. However, in the relatively arid Mediterranean environment, this type of activity has resulted over the millennia in almost complete deforestation of the islands. Furthermore, under the influence of government subsidies, access to global markets, improved veterinary care, and the ability to import animal feed during lean periods, livestock populations on the islands have further ballooned in the last 30 years, and overgrazing has resulted in widespread soil erosion and progressive desertification of the islands.

Despite these evident costs, local ranching communities continue to engage in intense livestock husbandry as it reflects the traditional values of island society. Ongoing ecological research has suggested management and restoration approaches to halt present desertification rates, yet these approaches are not well accepted by local communities as they entail change and significant economic costs. Changing behaviors is challenging and likely involves sustained community outreach, economic incentives, and education focusing predominately on the younger generation. This talk, given by an ecologist hailing from the region, will focus on ways to reconcile these different approaches and forge a path forward for a sustainable future.