Ecosystemic services in animal production: The perception of cattle breeder from Alegrete, Brazil

Abstract

Beef cattle production system is related to ecosystemic services to underscore the Association of Cattlebreeders of Rincão do Vinte e Oito. Ecosystemic services provided by beef cattle ranchers and sheep breeders on native pasture are analyzed. Database of the Projeto Aglomerados Urbanos em Áreas Protegidas (Urb-al Pampa) was employed and a case study with the Association´s producers is discussed. Traditionalism in production activity is the motive for the continuity of the Association in animal production. However, within the context of ecosystematic services, producers do not have a clear idea on how the maintenance of the production system may generate assets, even though it was evident that several regulatory, provision and cultural services were extant. The maintenance of animal production is valid for cattle breeders since they believe they provide well-being for their families and society. However, although they believe they should receive some sort of benefit for preserving native pastures, they do not know how they may receive compensation. This is especially true for the Payment for Environmental Service (PSA), a novel theme and scarcely discussed in the region.