"Me Adapto a Cualquier Situacion / I Adapt to any Situation": Sheepherders' Concerns & Resilience at Work

Abstract

Highlights: Sheepherders express pride in their resilience, skill, and responsibility for their flock's livelihood. Sheepherders face challenges meeting basic needs like food, clothing, and medical care. Isolation and environmental hardships take a toll on sheepherders' mental health. Challenging environmental conditions affect the working and living conditions of sheepherders working on the open range.

Abstract: Sheepherders in the western United States often work in remote areas in small campers, have long periods of isolation, and face challenging environmental conditions, including extreme weather and predator threats. There is limited research on the work and priorities of sheepherders in the United States. This qualitative study aimed to learn Spanish-speaking sheepherders' experiences at work as well as their greatest concerns and points of pride in their work. An oral survey was conducted with sheepherders in Colorado during April and May 2024. Responses were thematically analyzed. Twenty-four Spanish-speaking sheepherders participated. Survey respondents' greatest concerns were for meeting their basic needs, environmental conditions, economic pressures, and mental health effects of being isolated and distant from family. Findings show that sheepherders are resilient and adapt to a demanding work environment. Coordinated efforts are needed to address their concerns and meet their basic needs.

Keywords: Adaptability; Basic needs; Health; Sheepherders.