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The natural environment of Cannock Chase District is well known for its diversity and beauty. Working at the heart of this environment is the Council's Countryside Service, preserving valuable open spaces and providing opportunities for local people to enjoy their surroundings.

Several open spaces in the district are maintained by the Countryside Service. Working with Volunteers, sites are managed to provide the best possible conditions for wildlife and visitors. The dramatic beauty of the Iron Age Hill fort Castle Ring and the rugged heathland of the Hednesford Hills are among these sites. Hednesford Hills, in particular, is an important lowland heathland habitat, preserved and enhanced through the encouragement of heather and bracken.

The Hazel Slade Nature Reserve, set around a large pool, is a popular resource for local schools. Similarly, former mineral railway at Brereton and Norton Canes bring walkers and wildlife together.

The site's under the Council's control provide 'gateways' for people to enjoy the wider countryside of the district. The ongoing development of a 'Green Network' throughout the district enables all residents to enjoy the countryside close to their homes. Whilst the countryside sites are available for all to enjoy, the Countryside Service encourages the community to be involved in a full programme of events run each year.

Cannock Chase Council is an active partner in the Forest of Mercia project, planting, with the help of many local schools and voluntary organisations, thousands of trees each year to improve the environment.