The Mediterranean Model Forest Network (MMFN) held its first formal Assembly on March 11-13, 2009 in Valladolid, Spain. The meeting was hosted by the Junta de Castilla y Leon, and was co-organized with the IMFN Secretariat. On March 11, 2009 the Vice-president of the Junta of Castilla y Leon, Mrs. Maria Jesus Ruiz Ruiz, and the IMFNS Executive Director, Mr. Peter Besseau, presided over the official European launch of the Network which was accompanied by the signature of the Valladolid Declaration. The meeting also included a field trip to the Salamanca region during which participants observed different forest uses and management alternatives.

Other highlights included the adoption of a 2009-2011 work plan for the Mediterranean regional Secretariat and the joining of the Province of Livorno (Toscana, Italy). The European Forest Institute, through its Mediterranean Regional Office (EFIMED), signed a memorandum of understanding with the MMFN to coordinate and promote research and networking on Mediterranean forests, forestry and forest products.