National Forests Office (France)

The National Forests Office (Office National des Forêts - ONF) is a French public establishment responsible for the sustainable management of public forests in France and its overseas territories. The ONF's mission encompasses a wide range of activities, including timber production, environmental conservation, public recreation, and prevention of natural hazards such as wildfires and landslides.

As a state-owned institution, the ONF operates under the supervision of the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Ministry of Ecological Transition. It manages approximately 10.4 million hectares of forests, including state forests ("forêts domaniales") and forests belonging to local authorities and other public entities under management agreements.

The ONF's management practices emphasize biodiversity conservation, sustainable timber harvesting, and the preservation of forest ecosystems. It plays a significant role in France's efforts to combat climate change through carbon sequestration and the promotion of renewable energy sources derived from forest biomass. The ONF also contributes to scientific research on forestry and related environmental issues.

In addition to its core forestry activities, the ONF provides a variety of public services, such as maintaining hiking trails, operating visitor centers, and organizing educational programs about forests and the environment. It works closely with local communities, businesses, and other stakeholders to promote the responsible use of forest resources and the economic development of rural areas.