Biodiversity-Friendly Grazing: Linking Plant Conservation with Cooperative Dairy Production

Context: Brava’s unique ecosystems are home to several endangered and endemic plant species that are under increasing threat from free grazing, rural abandonment, and water scarcity. At the same time, cattle breeders face growing challenges due to drought, disease, and a lack of technical support. The cooperative dairy sector represents an important opportunity to improve rural livelihoods while reducing ecological pressures. By linking biodiversity conservation with cooperative dairy production, this project addresses both environmental and socio-economic priorities.

Objectives

  • Support the transition from free grazing to sustainable, biodiversity-friendly grazing practices.
  • Strengthen the capacity of the Cooperative Djabraba through acquisition of essential materials for the dairy production factory.
  • Organize trainings on cooperative development and management, product diversification, and hygiene and quality control.
  • Establish fodder fields and introduce cloud-moisture harvesting systems to secure water and feed resources sustainably.
  • Demonstrate the synergy between plant conservation and sustainable livestock production.

Expected Impact

  • Reduction of grazing pressure on endangered endemic plants.
  • Strengthened local economy through improved and diversified dairy production.
  • Enhanced capacity of cooperative members in management, hygiene, and quality standards.
  • Sustainable water and fodder resources for cattle breeders.
  • Demonstration of how biodiversity conservation can drive rural development.

Results (to date)

  • Acquisition of new equipment and materials for the Cooperative Djabraba.
  • First round of trainings conducted on cooperative management and hygiene practices.
  • Pilot fodder fields implemented in collaboration with cattle breeders.
  • Cloud-moisture harvesting systems installed as a sustainable water mobilization solution for cattle breeders in the high altitudes.

Donors and Support

  • Current Support: Ministry of Agriculture and the Environment, German Embassy in Lisbon

  • Past Support: Darwin Initiative (UKAID), Fauna & Flora

Technical Partners

  • BeSafe Group – training in animal health and welfare