We have arrived at our final destination on the trip. The Abruzzo region, in the town of Fontecchio, where our tour guide/ professor/ translator/ friend Alessio lives! Tucked into the side of a mountain and overlooking the valley, this rustic little town has views that make the journey their very well worth it! Many of the towns in the region developed along a transhumance path centuries before, where the people relied on sheep as the main resource of the region. Due to the variability of summer and winter grazelands, the people began to practice common property farming, and the land was essentially shared among the people and allocated for each farmer on a seasonal basis to provide food for their flock and thus for their family.

We have seen examples of this common property ownership of natural resources in many places throughout Italy. Issues have arisen in recent years, with the influence of private business practices seeking control of property to reap larger profits. While exploring the countryside we saw a farmer still herding his sheep through the transhumance path, though he implemented today's technology by following the herd in his Volkswagon...

This trip has really shown me that their are other successful possibilities for sustaining both profits and long-term environmental health of a region, as long as cooperation is at the foundation of their system. It seems like an ancient practice in the U.S., but those who value traditions and legacy here in Italy have shown that it is still possible to live simply and find joy in doing things the old fashioned way, and there are many benefits of doing so.

Going to miss this country, until next time Italy!
Ciao,
Jackson Leech