Traditional herders' perception of job satisfaction and integration into society: Another obstacle to the survival of pastoralism?

Pastoralism is gaining in recognition for its provision of a broad range of ecosystem services. However, in Western countries, especially in Europe, it has been in decline for decades and its future is uncertain. Professional satisfaction, social appreciation and community integration are key factors for the sustainability of any activity. Using information from 167 traditional Spanish herders, we assessed their perceived degree of satisfaction with their profession and the reasons behind their perceptions. Herders were extremely satisfied with their profession, but they perceived medium and low levels of appreciation by the rural and urban sectors of society, respectively. Herders had negative feelings about the sustainability of their profession, as they felt more appreciated by society in the past than they do today, half of them did not want their offspring to make a living as herders. Improving communication between herders and society could help to enhance herders' appreciation of their profession.