During June 2026, conferences focused on the unique arboreal heritage of the municipalities within the Mancomunidad del Embalse del Atazar took place. This initiative is part of a broader project under the Sustainable Tourism Plan, aimed at fostering sustainable development and experiential tourism by valuing landscape resources.
The project began with a comprehensive tree inventory, developed over two years by the Asociación Micorriza, involving Ossian de Leyva and Iván Maldonado. This research combined documentary and historical study with detailed fieldwork, examining isolated specimens, trees linked to heritage sites, groves, and those whose memory endures in place names and collective recollection.
The primary objective was to investigate and disseminate the value of this natural and cultural heritage, approaching it from technical and multidisciplinary perspectives, including biodiversity, history, culture, and art, as well as possibilities for respectful use.
Complementing the technical inventory, Javier Gómez Aoiz contributed to the creation of a guide and audiovisual material focused on environmental education and tourism. These resources, aligned with the Sustainable Tourism Plan, showcase the richness of the arboreal heritage across different seasons and in unique locations within the Mancomunidad. The printed guide features tree illustrations by Ignacio Sevilla Hidalgo, blending technical rigor, art, and nature for a broad audience.
The conferences, held in June 2026, paid homage to this natural inheritance, highlighting its ecological and aesthetic value, and the wisdom passed down by older generations. The aim was to raise awareness about tree care and gather professionals sensitive to these living beings.
The first day featured the Asociación Micorriza (Iván Maldonado) presenting work on singular trees. Mario Vega Pérez, coordinator of the environmental education program at CEA Hayedo de Montejo, discussed tree culture and the human connection with nature. The guide and project video were presented by Javier Gómez Aoiz.
The following day included a guided tour by the Asociación Micorriza (Ossian de Leyva) in El Atazar, exploring the botanical and cultural richness of the Senda de la Dehesa. Later, in El Berrueco, an interpretive walk focused on the ash tree dehesa, with input from Yaiza Vélez Olalde, a forestry engineer who authored research on the Dehesa Boyal.
A botanical illustration workshop, led by Ignacio Sevilla Hidalgo, broadened the understanding of detailed and scientific tree knowledge. On another day in El Atazar, a waste cleanup action was conducted around holm oaks, collecting 1,200 kg of debris with the collaboration of the Asociación Micorriza and volunteers.
The conferences concluded with contributions from Rosa Villalba Fernández, who explained the world of roots, and María José Parejo, director of "El Bosque Habitad" on Radio 3, emphasizing community building and outreach regarding nature.
Thanks were extended to the participating town councils, professionals, and attendees, as well as the wisdom of the local residents, acknowledging the invaluable heritage left by previous generations.
