In this valley, goats are the predominant livestock. Their milk is sold to the cooperative dairy in Moissac Vallée Française, or turned into Pélardon cheese on the farm. Pélardon was awarded the AOC (controlled designation of origin) in 2000 and the AOP (protected designation of origin) in 2001. This small round cheese made from unpasteurised whole goat's milk is an emblem of the Cévennes. Since goats offer a better financial return, herds of goats are smaller than flocks of sheep. They maintain smaller grazing surfaces, but need richer fodder to supply milk. (P. Grime)