Multifunctionality of mountains livestock systems: a multi-approach framework for the requalification of an abandoned pasture in the Italian Eastern Alps

Extensive livestock systems maintain mountain pastures that provide provisioning and non-provisioning ecosystem services. We present here the preliminary results of a multi-approach pilot project (2022-2024) to requalify an abandoned alpine pasture in Monte Coppolo (Italian Eastern Alps) through grazing by Lamon sheep, a critically endangered local breed according to FAO’s DAD-IS. In 2022, pre-grazing pasture soil microbial communities (sequencing and real-time PCR to quantify N cycle genes) and vegetation (botanical composition and primary productivity as indexed by NDVI) were characterized. Sequential grazing in four one-hectare sections was then introduced in 2023 (30 heads) and 2024 (85 heads), and soil microbial communities and vegetation were compared in grazed and non-grazed areas using exclusion cages. Sheep flocks were monitored with GPS collars with activometers to estimate grazing spatial intensity and sheep activity. In 2024, a photo-trapping system was implemented to monitor the grazed plots. Gene abundances and taxonomical and functional profiles of soil microbial communities varied with vegetation type but not with grazing intensity or across the summer. GPS tracking and NDVI indicated that grazing intensity positively influenced vegetation regrowth. Photo-trapping and GPS tracking confirmed a circadian activity rhythm of the sheep with peaks in the early morning and late evening. Photo-trapping also verified the presence of wolves and the effectiveness of electrified nets to prevent predations. These findings highlight the effectiveness of a multi-approach framework to characterize the interconnected alpine pasture components, providing practical information for the sustainable management of these areas with local breeds. They also evidence the fundamental role of livestock grazing for the conservation of alpine grassland biodiversity. Actions supporting the economic sustainability of low input grassland-based livestock farms, in particular smallholders, are needed.