Monte Veciñal en Man Común de Couso (MVMC de Couso), Spain
Who and where are we?
In Galicia, a quarter of the land (more than 7,000km2), is known as Mountain Forest Community land, which is owned and managed by 2,800 communities. These numbers give an indication of our identity and National culture, but also the productive and economic value of the lands.
This Mountain Forest Community land (Monte Veciñal en Man Común in Galician) is under a type of private ownership which has Germanic origins, and that is unique in the context of the state (government). The land is mainly situated in the northwest of Spain and almost exclusively in Galicia.
We (the Mountain Forest Community of Couso) are located in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula (Galicia), specifically within the town council area of Gondomar. This area is part of the Val Miñor county in the south of the province of Pontevedra, just 14km from Portugal. Our community governs an area of 3.3km2, of which 3km2 is productive. Management decisions are made by the assembly members and agreedby the Governing Board.
All those who live in a "house with smoke" (a metaphor for a house that is inhabited), have the right to vote in the decision-making and election of the Governing Board. Each "house with smoke" has the right to one vote, cast by any of its occupants.
Native species and ecological production
Fundamental to our approach is use of modern managerial techniques to transform the forest land into a valuable multi-functional and sustainable resource.
In addition to the conventional use of pine and eucalyptus, we have planted chestnut trees, and more recently, cherry and walnut trees.These are considered “more noble” species that enhance the landscape of our mountain forest. They also offer new economic opportunities.