ACOS to host National Autochthonous Breeds Day in Portugal

The Association of Southern Farmers (ACOS) will host a celebration for National Autochthonous Breeds Day on November 11. The event aims to highlight the importance of preserving traditional breeds for regional agriculture, livestock, and biodiversity.

A central roundtable discussion titled “How to value autochthonous breeds?” will feature representatives from various breed associations, including the Alentejano pig, Mertolengo cattle, Alentejana cattle, Serpentina goat, Merina sheep, and Garvonesa cattle. The session will be moderated by Claudino Matos of ACOS and María Bastidas of the Mértola Heritage Defense Association.

The event is organized in partnership with several breeders' associations and co-funded by the Pastonatur project. It is also part of the activities for the FAO’s International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026. The celebration will conclude with a lunch featuring regional products prepared by chef João Mourato.