The Friends of the Countryside
The Friends of the Countryside is a non-profit making organisation consisting of a network of like minded private landowners, rural managers and entrepreneurs from 27 countries stretching from the Rockies & Andes to the Carpathians. By means of innovative, regenerative and sustainable practices, this network promotes the long term interests of their land. Through the platform of the European Landowners’ Organisation, the FCS are able to ensure that their voice is heard throughout the European Union and well beyond.
29th Friends of the Countryside General Assembly
We are pleased to announce that the 29th Friends of the Countryside General Assembly will take place in Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain from May 21 to 24, 2026. A pre-tour is planned from May 19 to 21, with a post-tour from May 24 to 27. Please mark your calendars, further information will follow soon.
Latest News
The September/October edition of the Countryside Magazine is packed with bold ideas and fresh perspectives on the future of European land and agriculture.
Discover how the European Landowners’ Organization is shaping the future of sustainable land management and rural development. Our latest Activity Report offers an in-depth look at our activities, achievements, and impact over the past year.
This manifesto outlines ELO’s priorities ahead of the European elections, urging policymakers to recognize the central role of landowners in shaping a prosperous and harmonious future for Europe.
Read about the General Assembly of Friends of the Countryside in Sweden, which brings together members from across Europe to exchange knowledge, foster cooperation, and highlight innovative approaches to countryside stewardship.
The Forum is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Land and Soil Management Award. The award recognises outstanding initiatives that protect and enhance soil health across Europe, with a focus on challenges such as erosion, compaction, contamination, biodiversity decline and loss of organic matter.
Farmers, landowners, land managers and groups of farmers may apply individually or in partnership with research institutes, universities or private companies. The winning entry will receive a €5,000 prize and a diploma of recognition, presented at the Forum for the Future of Agriculture Annual Conference on 14 April 2026.
Applications close on 30 January 2026. By taking part, you can share the progress achieved on your land and contribute to raising the visibility of practical approaches that strengthen soil sustainability across Europe.
ZukunftMoor, a pioneering company based in Lower Saxony, has won the FAMIGRO Award 2025. The award honours an innovative approach to peatland management – vital for climate protection and the future of rural landscapes.
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