Gathering of non-timber forest products in the Cofre de Perote National Park and adjacent areas: a case study in El Escobillo, Veracruz, Mexico

A study of non-timber forest products (NTFP) in the community of El Escobillo, Veracruz, Mexico, and adjacent areas in the Cofre de Perote National Park (PNCP), is presented. We recorded 70 species (45 vascular plants, two bryophytes, and 23 fungi) classified into seven categories of use, highlighting the edible (31 species) with the highest income from sales; medicinal (21); firewood and ceremonial with the highest volume gathering for self-consumption; and the crafts for sale. According to the Mexican regulation (NOM-059-semarnat-2010), in the study area, the pananaca mushroom, the cochinitos mushroom, and the chimale palm are listed as threatened, and the perfume mushroom is under special protection. We identified 33 collection sites in three PNCP zones and five management systems. The "mountain" system represents most gathering sites and wild species, mainly the mushrooms for sale and self-consumption. NTFP collection represents an estimated income of MXN 943 624 per year for the sample. Sustainable strategies need to include the participation of PNCP's inhabitants as stewards and managers of NTFPs, with special emphasis on their knowledge and forms of organization, also considering the collaboration with civil society organizations, government, companies, and academia.