This thesis presents the characteristics of alpine pastoralism and seasonal grazing on the mountain pastures of the Tolmin area, as well as changes in their role and organisation over time. The mountain pastures of the Tolmin area represent an important part of the traditional grazing system in the Upper Soča Valley, where the seasonal movement of livestock to alpine pastures plays an important role in the use of grassland, the preservation of the cultural landscape, and the maintenance of traditional way of life. The aim of the thesis was to present the characteristics of alpine pastoralism in the Tolmin area, the organisation and use of mountain pastures, and the changes that have occurred in this field over the past decades. Based on a review of professional literature, available data, and conversations with residents and experts familiar with alpine pastoralism, we found that the extent of traditional alpine pastoralism in the Tolmin area has declined over the past decades. The number of active mountain pastures, farmers and livestock has decreased, which in some areas has resulted in the abandonment of grazing, the overgrowth of pastures, the gradual deterioration of traditional mountain pasture buildings, and the loss of knowledge with alpine pastoralism and milk processing. The Sleme and Medrje mountain pastures are presented in greater detail, while other mountain pastures in the Tolmin area are also mentioned. The thesis describes the organisation of grazing, the allocation of grazing days among farmers, the seasonal stay of farmers on the mountain pastures, livestock care, and traditional milkprocessing practices used to produce typical dairy products. It also addresses typical mountain pasture buildings, their functions and equipment, and changes in their use over time. Maintaining active mountain pastures is therefore important for preserving the cultural landscape, maintaining pasture biodiversity and traditional knowledge, and ensuring the further development and recognition of alpine pastoralism in the Tolmin area.
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