Forestry, Nature Protection and Recreational Services are managed out of 6 regional centres. Silvicultural decisions are made at the local district level. Their tasks are done with the approval of other federal ministries. In addition, the Federal Ministry of Finance manages approximately 400,000 ha of forest land for civil defence and civil aviation purposes. Forest Mergers are unions of more than one forest association or community association.
State forests are also members of the forest owner associations.
The formation of forest associations is encouraged because of their ability to improve forest management. Forest owners with small holdings, sparse woodlands, or restricted road access can benefit economically, when holdings are managed jointly. Implementation of the forest law is continuously audited by all three administrative levels. The Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Forestry is the highest administrative level. Development of the State Forestry Law and accompanying regulations as well as Law additions or changes are determined by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Forestry.