Farmers in north-western Spain are reintroducing native goats, sheep, and Cachena "goat-cows" to graze on flammable vegetation in the Galicia region [1, 2].
This effort aims to create natural firebreaks by removing combustible undergrowth that fuels devastating blazes. By restoring traditional grazing patterns, local communities hope to prevent the repeat of recent environmental catastrophes.
The initiative follows the 2025 wildfire season, which is identified as the worst year for fires in Spain [1, 2]. During that period, fires consumed approximately 119,000 hectares of land [1, 3]. This burned area is roughly double the size of Madrid [1].
Local farmers and communities are focusing on native breeds because these animals are well-adapted to the rugged terrain of Galicia [1, 2]. The Cachena, often described as a "goat-cow" due to its size and agility, is particularly effective at clearing brush in difficult areas [2].
By utilizing these animals, the region seeks to rebalance ecosystems that have become overgrown and volatile [1, 2]. This biological approach to land management reduces the amount of fuel available for potential fires, shifting the strategy from reactive firefighting to proactive prevention [2].
The reintroduction of these breeds also supports the preservation of local genetic diversity. Native livestock are more resilient to the local climate and soil conditions than imported breeds, making them sustainable partners in long-term land management [2].
“Farmers are reintroducing native goats, sheep, and Cachena "goat-cows" to graze on flammable vegetation”
The shift toward native livestock grazing represents a move toward 'nature-based solutions' for climate adaptation. By integrating traditional agriculture with wildfire prevention, Spain is attempting to reduce its reliance on costly mechanical clearing and chemical interventions, while simultaneously addressing the rural depopulation that often leaves landscapes unmanaged and prone to fire.
