A Day in the Life of a Mongolian Cashmere Herder

The nomadic ethos of each Mongolian herder transcends traditional farming and enables goats to roam independently across open steppes. Cashmere production is significant because 70% of their income is derived from herding, which contributes greatly to Mongolia’s economy. Moreover, ethical sourcing-based practices and high production capacity contribute to economic well-being.

The daily routine of cashmere herders emphasizes the good health of cashmere goats. The strong relationship between the animals and herders is at the core of their work. Each goat herder is well acquainted with the goats and lands, adapting to changing weather conditions and flock behavior.

The day of a Mongolian cashmere herder begins at dawn. Rising before the sun, they tend to their precious flock of cashmere goats. This sets the tone of their day as they prepare to explore distant lands and pastures. As natural pastoralists, the herders are well-versed in traditional practices and know their herd well.

Every nomadic herder, whether man or woman, plays a vital role in animal husbandry. Their morning tasks include milking animals like cows, goats, and yaks. Moreover, they are engrossed in supervising the health of these animals. They also prepare traditional dairy-based breakfasts that maintain their health. These herders also focus on rotational grazing and resting practices. Every nomadic herder works on other tasks, such as feeding and haymaking during winter.

With the help of various skills and techniques, Mongolian herders guide their herds. Let’s look at the same in detail.

Mongolian herders effectively direct the animals towards grazing areas. They use animals such as horses, sheep, goats, cattle, and camels. Such animals assist in sustenance, transportation, and more. The dogs and horses are used to guide the herd in grazing regions effectively.

Horses play a vital role in simplifying the task of a Mongolian nomad. To maintain a good Mongolian nomadic culture, they simplify transportation. Ultimately, they help herders move across huge landscapes and easily access grazing regions.

Traditionally, Mongolian nomads keep Bankhar dogs (livestock guarding dogs) to protect livestock against predators. Additionally, goat herders use the hides, wool, and bones of livestock animals for shelter, clothing, and tool-making.

Mongolian herders use various tools and methods to guide and manage large herds. First, they regularly ensure veterinary care, disease prevention, and vaccinations. They monitor rangeland conditions to avoid land degradation. Additionally, herders use natural resources and modern techniques, such as efforts run by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), to gain maximum benefit from seeking greener vegetation. The headers also use Mongolian textile-based techniques like de-haring into cashmere production.

Mongolian cashmere production includes various steps, such as craftsmanship and maintenance in the afternoon. Many Mongolian artisans use manual methods, guaranteeing high attention to detail. The craftsmanship combines traditional and contemporary approaches to ensure exceptional cashmere quality. Hand-combing is a part of the everyday traditions that are religiously followed.

It is relatively easy to maintain a Mongolian tent with regular upkeep. The felt coverings must be treated with a water-repellent spray to avoid water damage. Furthermore, the wooden frame must be checked to identify any odds of wear and tear.

Felt-making and textile production are central to Mongolian nomadic culture. During winter, additional layers of felt are incorporated to keep the Ger hot. During summer, the felt could be rolled up to allow a breeze. Usually, the felt used by herders is prepared using wool collected from goats and sheep.

Mongolian herders are involved in various tasks related to equipment maintenance and repair.

One important task they focus on is mobility. This includes moving around both outdoors and indoors. Related tasks include using stairs, getting out of bed, and more. The herders also choose proper clothing for the livestock and help them wear it. They work on zippers and fastening buttons. They use utensils to carry food to the animals’ mouths for feeding. They also plan meals, cook, and collect necessary ingredients.

The culture of Mongolian nomads is deeply connected with the steppe. The customs and traditions are sustained. The culture is shaped by the need to adapt to the severe nature of the environment there. Additionally, technological advancements are influenced by the resources available in the vast steppe.

Mongolian herders usually focus on nomadic herding to carry their animals from one grazing area to another as per the seasonal cycle. For example, in winter, they carry their animals to the lowlands, but during summer, they carry them toward the highlands. Large dogs, such as the Great Pyrenees, protect the livestock against predators like coyotes and wolves. They also let the herd continue moving and return safely for the night.

In the evening, the Khorkhog dish is prepared, which involves cooking meat using hot stones. These stones are warmed up in a fire and positioned in a pot with the meat. Within a Mongolian ger, the stove serves various purposes, from cooking to heating.

The Mongolian nomadic also practice singing long song that showcases melodic beauty. Additionally, the community engages in the storytelling of Janggar to highlight the significance of strength, wisdom, and martial arts.

The nomadic herding culture is heavily based on the Mongolian cashmere industry. The majority of the Mongolian cashmere is produced by the hard work of each Nomadic herder.

Cashmere goats were traditionally domesticated in regions like the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau. The harsh winter weather in these regions contributes to the production of quality textiles. The traditional practice is selective breeding in which goats with the softest and finest undercoats are selected.

Mongolian cashmere is usually regarded as "soft gold." It serves as a testament to the lasting craftsmanship and nomadic traditions of each Nomadic herder. The cashmere trade allows each Mongolian nomad to supplement their income perfectly. Additionally, cashmere fiber has become a significant part of the country's economy.

GOBI Cashmere directly sources its cashmere from almost 3,000 herding families that are dwelling across Mongolia. Eliminating intermediaries ensures the brand can provide superior quality Mongolian cashmere at reasonable prices.

GOBI Cashmere’s commitment to sustainability extends from the vast steppes to the manufacturing facility in Ulaanbaatar. The brand collaborates effectively with local herders to ensure the ethical treatment of all livestock. Moreover, the manual hand-combing of goats helps preserve their traditional practices.

GOBI Cashmere's mission is to bring comfort, warmth, beauty, and joy to people through their 100% Mongolian cashmere products. It also aims to enhance the lives of the herders and their homeland. The commitment highlights their dedication to offering luxurious cashmere products that do no harm to the environment.

Let’s go through some of the eco-friendly practices used in producing cashmere:

GOBI Cashmere focuses on the welfare of goats. So, they employ responsible breeding methods to create high-quality cashmere fiber. Effective land management ensures that herders protect the land and biodiversity sustainably. Proper rangeland stewardship maintains healthy ecosystems.

Through safe and natural goat herding, the brand can produce high-quality cashmere effectively. It allows herders to manage smaller flocks and use less land. The brand also carefully sources raw cashmere and maintains nomadic traditions.