We are taking part in the “Lampa” conversation festival”

On 5 and 6 July, together with our project partners from the Latvian Rural Advisory and Training Centre, we are organising activities at the Lampa conversation festival, in the Rural Tent.

5 July at 7.00 pm – a discussion on the importance of cattle in the conservation of natural meadows

Over the last ten years, there has been an increase in the number of beef cattle in Latvia. This has been largely driven by the growth of the export market. However, only a small proportion of calves remain in Latvia for fattening, and this initiative relies on farmers who wish to produce goods with added value both for themselves and for the people of Latvia.

What’s more, cattle are the best way to restore natural meadows – they graze on plants at different times, allowing them to flower and go to seed, and they also disperse the seeds of the plants they have eaten across the meadow. A meadow needs a cow!
Productive, profitable livestock farming that meets the demand of the local market, whilst at the same time contributing to nature conservation and having a positive impact on the climate? Is that even possible? We’ll be discussing this in this conversation about beef production in Latvia.

The final part of the discussion will feature a tasting of beef reared on natural pastures, followed by a chat around the barbecue, led by an experienced family chef.

     5 and 6 July, throughout the festival – the “Come to the Meadow, Naturally!” activity”

What is a natural meadow and why do we need it? What does it offer us? And why does a meadow need livestock? You’ll find the answers to these questions when you let yourself be captivated by the meadow, stop and sit in the ‘Meadow Corner’ to feel, hear and see the natural meadow, how it is managed, and the products and services that can be obtained from it. A refreshing drink made from meadow plants and some snacks are on offer.