France has provided us with many wonderful things, ranging from the profound- the underpinnings of our democratic traditions, to the pleasurable- its cuisine and sense of style. But one of the very best things France has to offer is almost unknown in North America- its extensive system of Regional Parks. French Regional Parks offer American communities and their leaders many relevent ideas and new perspectives. The story of these "parks," which include so much more than traditional nature parks, is now unfolding on this website in the form of a book. Click below to view the introductory section and Chapter One.

Introduction by Jean-Luc Sadorge, Former Director, Federation of French Regional Nature Parks

The creation of the French Regional Nature Parks in 1967 was a visionary act. In their brief history, the Regional Parks have become vital players on the land-use chessboard–even though they have no formal regulatory power. Their freedom to innovate, wisely guided by community charters, remains a stroke of genius.

Chapter 1: A New Concept Emerges and Takes Root

Americans may find the term French Regional Nature Parks somewhat misleading, for they are much more than the "nature parks" found in the United States. These "regional parks" take in entire, varied landscapes that include towns, villages, businesses, farms, and cultural and natural resources.