Acquiring in-depth knowledge of the agronomic and ecological potential of grassland is a valuable prerequisite for meeting the challenges dairy systems are faced with. The multifunctional typology presented in this article offers an overview of the aptitudes of grassland to render services and provides sound arguments for discussion with livestock farmers when it comes to the question of adapting their practices. This multifunctional typology lists and describes 60 types of grassland ranked as levels on the basis of a general identification key. In the wake of the Prairies AOP Scheme, a simplified version has been issued, including an in-depth description of the 23 main types of grassland observed in dairy systems in the AOP-certified geographical areas of the MassifCentral : agro-ecological potential, rendered service (agronomic, ecological and quality of dairy products), vegetation dynamics, advantages and risks. The strategy which was implemented, the selected methodologies and the benefits of such a tool in connection with the challenges faced by the AOP-certified dairy systems in the Massif Central are described.