Natural Regional Park Network Menu What is a Park ? Mission Statements Charter Natural Regional Park Network Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park Territory Project The Park Charter Guideline 1 Guideline 2 Guideline 3 Guideline 4 Hautes-Vosges Plateau des Mille étangs Valleys and Foothills The Park in Figures France counts 51 Natural Regional Parks involved in Heritage Preservation and Local Development Projects. In 1968, the first Park was created a year after the signing of the Decree instituting Natural Regional Parks. Today, France counts 50 Natural Regional Parks (www.parcs-naturels-regionaux.tm.fr), representing 13% of the French territory, more than 4,200 communes, more than 8.5 million hectares and more than 3.8 million inhabitants. A non-profit organisation created in November 1971, the “Federation” represents the Natural Regional Park Network. Its aims are: To represent the collective interests of the Natural Regional Parks to administrations, parliamentary assemblies and institutional bodies, as well as their inclusion in the drafting of relevant texts and policies. To take part in defining and implementing policies in favour of French rural areas. To broadcast and promote the Natural Regional Parks’ ethic, and their actions in France and abroad. The “Fédération des Parcs naturels régionaux” (Natural Regional Park Federation) is a structure for dialogue with other French and international protected areas – and with partners concerned by their actions; it is also the Natural Regional Parks’ resource centre, sharing experience, initiating think tanks, and providing specific tools to help them carry out their missions. Find Out More: Natural Regional Park Network