French mountain regions host pastoralism events for International Year 2026

On 1 August 2026, the Parc naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne will guide a mobile herd of 250 Rava sheep on a 5.5‑km transhumance from the Chaîne des Puys to the puy des Gouttes. The free walk, part of the International Year of Pastoralism, aims to keep volcanic summits open, protect biodiversity, and provide economic and educational benefits for a local agricultural school.

Throughout the summer, the Belledonne massif will run a series of immersive activities to showcase the role of pastoralism in mountain ecosystems. Programs include a free "Vis ma vie de Bûcheron" forest‑workshop, a "Montée de sel" with shepherds, a "Tournée des bergers" featuring documentary screenings and dialogue with alpine herders, and events promoting fire prevention and landscape stewardship.

Both initiatives seek to raise public awareness of shepherding as essential for maintaining open alpine spaces, preventing wildfires, and preserving biodiversity while fostering coexistence between tourists and traditional agricultural practices.