Federation of Conservancies of natural areas (Fédération des Conservatoires d’espaces naturels)

The 24 Conservancies of natural areas are associations that have been preserving and enhancing the natural and landscape heritage for almost 50 years. They are one of the largest networks of natural area managers in France, with the support of the European Union, the State, local authorities and their public bodies, as well as numerous private partners. Recognised for their ability to engage in dialogue and the relevance of their scientific and technical expertise, they develop innovative initiatives around five key themes: ‘Know, Protect, Manage, Enhance, Support’. Since 2009, they benefit from a specific approval issued by the State and the Regions.

In total, they manage 4,500 natural areas, covering 300,000 ha. One municipality in 7 is concerned by the presence of a protected site managed by the Conservatoires. 1,650 sites are open to the public, welcoming 6 million visitors every year. The 1,200 employees work with the support of thousands of members and volunteers.

The mission of the Federation is to encourage exchanges between Conservancies in order to strengthen their actions in the field. It runs programmes such as the Peatland relay centre, the National chiroptera action plan, programmes about weatlands and old-growth forests. It is also involved in programmes on the Loire and Rhône rivers. As part of the LIFE NaturArmy programme, the Federation is working with the French Ministry of Armed Forces to promote ecological management of military land. It is also taking action on invasive alien species, management documents, carbon storage in natural environments, as well as on land ownership and real environmental obligations (ORE).

Contact

Website : https://reseau-cen.org/

Facebook: @federation.des.conservatoires.despaces.naturels

Twitter: @RESEAU_CEN

LinkedIn : Fédération des Conservatoires d’espaces naturels

Instagram : @reseau_cen