Vendée livestock farmers implement biodiversity and cooperative models

In the Pays de la Loire region of France, livestock farmers are adopting specialized models to promote biodiversity and economic stability. The ‘Biodiversités maraîchines’ initiative, a partnership involving the LPO Vendée, local breeders, and Biocoop stores, focuses on raising Maraîchine cattle in pastures to maintain natural landscapes and protect wild biodiversity.

Participants in this initiative commit to continuous training in biodiversity and animal care. They also engage in a ‘Permanent Dialogue for Nature,’ which involves biennial farm visits by local residents and naturalists to foster transparency and shared progress.

Separately, approximately thirty veal breeders in the region are utilizing the Cevap cooperative model. Unlike traditional integrated systems, this cooperative allows farmers to remain involved in the market from production to commercialization. By centralizing the purchase of feed and veterinary products, the cooperative aims to provide better visibility and security for its members.