Animal Husbandry
The Hozho Voices of Healing Center's animal husbandry program is designed to promote sustainable and regenerative practices in the care and management of various animal species. The program focuses on the well-being and holistic health of the animals, while also considering the ecological impact and cultural significance of raising these animals within the Diné community.
The animal husbandry program encompasses a range of activities and initiatives that aim to achieve the following objectives:
Animal Care and Welfare: The program emphasizes the humane treatment of animals, ensuring their physical and mental well-being. This involves providing appropriate shelter, nutrition, veterinary care, and handling techniques that respect the animals' natural behaviors and needs.
Sustainable Grazing and Feeding Practices: The center promotes sustainable grazing and feeding practices that ensure the animals have access to nutritious forage and feed sources while minimizing overgrazing and environmental degradation. This may involve rotational grazing systems, the cultivation of native or sustainable forage crops, and responsible feed management.
Genetic Preservation and Breed Conservation: The program recognizes the importance of preserving and promoting traditional and indigenous animal breeds, such as the Navajo Churro sheep. It may include initiatives to maintain genetic diversity, prevent crossbreeding with non-indigenous breeds, and support the cultural significance of these animals within the Diné community.
Regenerative Agriculture Integration: The animal husbandry program integrates with the center's broader regenerative agriculture practices. Animals play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, soil fertility, and ecosystem balance. By strategically managing their presence and movement on the land, the program aims to enhance soil health, promote regenerative grazing practices, and improve overall land resilience.
Education and Community Engagement: The center provides educational programs, workshops, and training opportunities to community members, volunteers, and staff. These initiatives aim to share knowledge about sustainable animal husbandry practices, traditional animal care techniques, and the importance of animals in Diné culture. By engaging the community, the program seeks to foster a deeper connection to the land, animals, and ancestral practices.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: The center actively collaborates with experts, organizations, and institutions to exchange knowledge and best practices in animal husbandry. This collaboration facilitates ongoing learning, research, and innovation in the field, ultimately contributing to the advancement of sustainable animal management techniques.
Through the animal husbandry program, the Hozho Voices of Healing Center strives to honor the interconnectedness of land, animals, and human well-being. By incorporating traditional wisdom, regenerative principles, and community involvement, the program aims to promote a balanced and harmonious relationship between animals, people, and the environment.
