Análise do discurso de criadores de cavalo campeiro no sul do Brasil: instrumento de diagnóstico para conservação e fortalecimento da raça

Abstract

The Campeiro horse is a local breed from Southern Brazil. Currently, it is in risk of extinction. This study was undertaken to identify and sort out major topics related to Campeiro horse breeding based on the analysis of farmers´ conversation. Data were obtained by interviewing eleven Campeiro owners using a questionnaire and a portable audio recorder. Speech content analysis was carried out according to Bardin (2004). Two major categories emerged from 508 Elementary Context Units (UCEs): 1) Factors that influence the choice for horse breeding (58.66% of all UCEs); 2) Perceptions about the development of the breed (35.24%). Category 1 was divided in three primary subcategories (SP): Cultural Influence (subdivided in Traditionalism and Inheritance), Affection for horses (subdivided in Horses in general, and in Specific for Campeiro), and Purpose (subdivided into Leisure and Labor). The secondary subcategory (SS) “Specific for Campeiro” was divided into four tertiary subcategories: Docility, Rusticity, Resistance and Comfort. Category 2 was divided in two SP: Favorable perspectives (subdivided in Commercialization (22.35% of category 2) and Organization Structure (18.99%)). In general, category 1 revealed a strong local identity, considering local culture, family tradition and Campeiro breeding, besides the actual purpose of the horse and some advantages in using this breed. Category 2 revealed some perceptions about favorable and unfavorable issues for the near future.