Balancing Conservation and Livelihoods: Strengthening Pasture Management in the Shar Korab Massif

The Shar Korab Massif is more than just a breathtaking natural landscape; it is a vital resource for local communities that depend on grazing for their livelihoods. However, maintaining a balance between conservation and sustainable grazing requires strong governance and effective management.

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance pasture management in the Sharr-Korab conservation area, our project team has been actively engaging key stakeholders, including shepherds and public institutions. These discussions have been instrumental in identifying challenges, exploring opportunities, and developing strategies for sustainable pasture use.

The project team conducted both individual and group meetings with shepherds and representatives from institutions such as the Public Enterprise for the Economization of Pastures (PEEP) in North Macedonia, regional Pasture Directories in Tetovo, Gostivar, and Debar, as well as the Directorate of Agriculture and Forests in Kukes and Diber municipalities. These engagements provided valuable insights into the current state of pasture management and the challenges faced by those who depend on these landscapes.

To assess biodiversity conditions and tackle pasture-related issues, the project team organised three regional workshops. Participants explored the impacts of climate change on pastures and discussed practical protective measures. Shepherds voiced pressing concerns, including:

• Lack of institutional support and bureaucratic challenges in securing pasture permits.
• Poor infrastructure, particularly inadequate road access to grazing areas.
• Market barriers, limiting the economic viability of pastoral activities.
• Environmental threats such as: illegal logging, deforestation, forest fires, over harvesting of medicinal plants, illegal hunting, off-road vehicle damage, plastic waste pollution, and climate change impacts.

Public institution representatives highlighted gaps in the legal framework that have led to administrative conflicts between state agencies, local governments, and protected area authorities, affecting pasture management services.

These discussions highlighted the urgent need for improved policies, stronger institutional coordination, and practical solutions to sustain the traditional shepherding culture while protecting the biodiversity of the Shar Korab region. Moving forward, efforts will focus on:

• Strengthening cooperation between shepherds and authorities.
• Developing cross-border guidelines for sustainable pasture management.
• Promoting eco-friendly grazing practices that support high-quality local products and responsible tourism.

By fostering collaboration and implementing sustainable practices, we can ensure that the rich pastoral heritage of the Shar Korab Massif thrives alongside its unique natural ecosystem.

By: Albanian Local Capacity Development Foundation (ALCDF)