The region of Ticino is facing a critical shortage of new shepherds, leading officials to actively recruit career changers to fill the gap. As the demands of the profession increase, the local Farmers’ Association is opening doors to individuals from diverse professional backgrounds to ensure the survival of alpine herding.
A Modern Struggle for Tradition
The difficulty in finding new shepherds is attributed to both environmental pressures and shifting societal expectations. Sem Genini, Secretary of the Ticino Farmers’ Association, notes that the presence of wolves has made the work more challenging.
Beyond the wildlife threat, Genini points out that modern lifestyle needs create a barrier to entry. He observes that some alpine pastures lack internet reception, making the role harder to fill now than it was 40 years ago.
Recruiting from Unexpected Fields
An information evening in Bellinzona recently attracted almost 30 interested individuals, including those with no prior agricultural training. Among them was Allison Meier, a 31-year-old trained tailor whose interest in the profession was sparked after two of her sheep were victims of wolf attacks.
Other attendees include Luciano, an engineer nearing retirement who grew up as a farm boy in Valais and seeks to return to his roots. Larry, a 20-year-old who recently completed a forestry apprenticeship, expressed a fascination with the solitude and quiet of the alpine world.
The Path to Certification
The Farmers’ Association is offering a multi-month course that begins in mid-May and concludes in September. The program combines theoretical and practical modules, ending with an oral examination and a practical internship on an alp.
Students learn about various cattle, goat, and sheep breeds, as well as the management of livestock guardian dogs. These dogs are essential for protection against wolves, though they can pose a danger to tourists because they protect the herd at all costs.
Flexible Career Options
The profession does not necessarily require a 100 percent time commitment. Genini indicated that the role could be a viable option for those who are currently unemployed or those who wish to spend a summer or two on the alp.
Successful completion of the course leads to a cantonal diploma. This certification is seen as a vital step for those looking to formalize their skills, including experienced shepherds like Donald Krocynski from the Bleniotal, who attended the session with his son.
Looking Ahead
If the recruitment drive is successful, Ticino may see a more diverse workforce managing its alpine pastures. The integration of career changers could potentially stabilize the livestock sector, provided that new recruits possess the kaltblütigkeit—or cold-bloodedness—required to handle wolf encounters.
Future challenges may include managing the friction between protective livestock dogs and the tourism industry, as both are central to the region’s economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the shepherd course cover?
The course includes theoretical and practical modules focusing on different breeds of sheep, goats, and cattle, as well as training on how to handle livestock guardian dogs.
When does the training grab place and how is it completed?
The course begins in mid-May and ends in September. It concludes with a practical internship on an alp and an oral examination, leading to a cantonal diploma.
Is it possible to work as a shepherd part-time?
Yes, the profession does not have to be practiced 100 percent. It is suggested as an option for people who are not currently employed and can arrange to spend a summer or more on the alp.
Would you be willing to trade internet connectivity for the solitude of an alpine pasture?
