The first efforts to establish a real Administration of Forest Resources in French-speaking African countries date back to the end of the 19th century, although there have been many attempts since the 18th century.

In Côte d'Ivoire, the Water and Forests Administration as a Service has existed since the decree of July 20, 1900 establishing the Forestry Regime. Initially attached to the General Directorate of Economic Services of the General Government of Dakar, this Service passed, on the eve of the Independence of Côte d'Ivoire, with the Framework Law of 1957, under the supervision of the Secretary of State for Agriculture and Cooperation.

Since the accession of the country to national and international sovereignty, the Water and Forest Service has undergone an evolution made up of continual changes in structures and supervision;