Turkey's small cattle breeders, who maintain approximately 60 million sheep and goats, are confronting a shortage of shepherds despite job opportunities exceeding the minimum wage. The sector, which experienced a 12% increase in animal numbers last year despite drought, is seeking to elevate shepherding to a respected profession and seek government support for forest grazing to address feed deficits. The breeders are optimistic for the upcoming season with winter rains and seek more government support to further boost the sector, which they believe could reduce imports if fully developed.