Network objectives

1. The management of cultural heritage shaped by transhumant livestock farming

2. The promotion of the cultural, environmental and economic sustainability of the transhumant system

3. The enhancement of the sustainability of the system in order to protect its continuation in the future

4. The promotion of environmental protection, the sustainable use of land and natural resources and the maintenance of genetic diversity within the framework of the Common Agricultural Policy and national and European environmental policies

5. The detection of cultural elements deriving from the system to include within integrated development initiatives

6. The management of programs and initiatives, either independently or in collaboration with institutions in Greece or with foreign networks, in order to achieve the objectives of the Network

7. The dissemination of the experience resulting from the study of the system and from other initiatives to be undertaken by the Network.

8. The formulation of integrated promotion and marketing strategies for the products of the transhumant sheep and goat farming system

The NTF intends to undertake a wide range of actions, including:

1. Formulation of information - educational material. This material may be distributed to the general public in order to enable direct contacts with the intangible cultural heritage, supported by the transhumant system up to this day. In the next phase, with appropriate adjustments, this material could be distributed to primary and secondary schools and be part of the environmental education, aiming to make children familiar with the cultural heritage associated with transhumance

2. Communication and mobility. Organization of targeted meetings with representatives of transhumant farmers in all Greek regions, with a view to ensure regular cooperation schemes. The purposes of the Network extend to all regions of Greece and integrate all aspects of the culture and heritage of transhumance with all its local variations, thus highlighting the common roots of the system throughout the country. The Network aims to celebrate these cultural features by promoting its various manifestations within a common communication framework.

3. A comprehensive study of the multifunctional nature of the system in order to consolidate the view that the system is culturally and environmentally sustainable and economically viable

4. Integrated study of the routes of herds through an integrated approach (socioanthropological, territorial, architectural, ecological, sociological, economic). Transhumance has shaped natural and man-mane landscapes in many areas and has established valuable cultural elements. The recording and study of all these features can be valorized in the revival of the routes of flocks, which can be used by transhumant flocks and/or for leisure activities, tourists, travelers, athletes etc.

5. Support of traditional festivals organized in almost all mountainous villages and enrichment with culinary events, in order to highlight local products. Future support for such activities could be extended to the whole country or in the establishment of nationwide events.

6. Foundation of the “Museum of Pastoral Heritage”. This museum could include exhibition material as traditional costumes, utensils, tools, etc. but also photos, videos and other information material. The NTF will seek to develop synergies with similar networks in foreign countries.

7. Market research for products that could potentially be produced from raw materials by transhumant flocks, at the farm level of locally. By identifying niche markets for these products and organizing appropriate marketing strategies, these products may have high added value, with significant benefits for producers and small local dairies.

8. Targeted actions in the mid-term will lead to changing the attitudes and increasing the self-esteem of transhumant farmers but will also change the way that society regards them.

The Network may take other actions provided they fall within its objectives and contribute to their fulfillment