Metsähallitukselle

Metsähallitus is a Finnish state-owned enterprise responsible for managing the state’s land, water and natural resources on behalf of the Finnish state. It operates under the supervision of the government, primarily through the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Ministry of the Environment. The organization has two main lines of activity: land and water administration, and nature conservation plus services related to outdoor recreation.

In its land and water administration role, Metsähallitus holds title to vast areas of state-owned land and water, leases land to individuals and businesses for forestry, agriculture, recreation and other uses, and grants rights for activities such as timber harvesting, fishing, hunting, and grazing. It also supports reindeer husbandry in its areas where this is practiced, in cooperation with authorities and local communities.

In nature conservation, Metsähallitus manages national parks, nature reserves and other protected areas, maintains protected area networks, and administers permits for activities that may affect ecosystems. It also provides outdoor recreation services, such as maintained trails, cabins and visitor information, enabling public access to natural areas.

The enterprise is governed by a board of directors and a management team, and its activities are subject to Finnish environmental and commercial law. It publishes financial statements and reports on land use, forestry and conservation, contributing to sustainable management of Finland’s natural resources.