2.2 Nomadic – like pastoral systems keep traditions alive in the formal global power (Mongolia)

Taking care of Yak (relative of cow) is an important agricultural heritage in deep Mongolia.

Ideas that inspired us

  • Since ancient times, pastoral specialist has taken care of the iconic animal called yak one of the 4 iconic animals in Mongolia (horse, camel, yak and sheep).
  • Looking a bit like cattle, they only live-in unpolluted areas with green pastures and clean water.
  • Looking for the right pastures is part of the so-called transhumant pasture system in what once the most powerful global empire.
  • The skills to keep the yeak are known only a very few, so far, no modern technology made available.
  • The caring of the yak is one of 11 examples of potential agriculture heritage system is now under threat of modernization.

Remarkable Communities

  • Yak producers in Arkhangai Aimag, Mongolia Yak Association

Key Features

Home-made dairy products on top of the multipurpose gher (tent).
The all-purpose tent (traditional nomadic tent)

Mentors and Co-travelers

GIAHS, ERDENEBAATR Batjargal, The Mongolian Yak association

Personal Insights

  • One can only respect the great pastoral skills of the herders in Mongolian steeps.
  • Mongolian pastures depend on the conservation of agrobiodiversity of pastures and grasses.
  • This all involves “Transhumance” (e.g., moving animals to highland pastures in summer and valleys in winter).
  • The transhumance skills to keep the yak are known only to a very few villagers.
  • (“Trans” – across, humus – “rich ground/soil”) – need to dynamically conserve this practice, applied to the yak

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