The Department of Natural Resources and Environment is dedicated to the conservation and sustainable management of our state's natural resources. We work to protect ecosystems, wildlife, water resources, and forests while ensuring these resources are available for future generations to enjoy and benefit from.
About Us
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) was established with a mission to protect, conserve, and enhance the natural resources of our state while providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and sustainable economic development. With over 1,500 employees across 12 regional offices, we are committed to science-based management and collaborative partnerships.
Our vision is a state where the environment is healthy, natural resources are managed sustainably, and all citizens have access to quality outdoor experiences. We believe that a healthy environment is essential for a healthy economy and quality of life.
Our Mission
To protect and enhance our natural resources for the benefit of current and future generations through stewardship, conservation, education, and sustainable use.
Our Core Values
- Stewardship: We are entrusted with caring for natural resources responsibly.
- Science: Our decisions are guided by sound science and research.
- Integrity: We act with transparency, honesty, and ethical responsibility.
- Service: We serve the public with professionalism and dedication.
- Collaboration: We work with partners to achieve common conservation goals.
Leadership
Dr. Sarah Mitchell
Department Director
Leading our department since 2019, Dr. Mitchell brings over 20 years of environmental policy and conservation expertise.
James Rodriguez
Deputy Director of Operations
Mr. Rodriguez oversees department operations and coordinates our statewide conservation initiatives.
Dr. Linda Chen
Chief Scientist
Dr. Chen directs our scientific research programs and ensures our management decisions are evidence-based.
Services We Provide
Permits & Licensing
We manage various permits for hunting, fishing, timber harvesting, water usage, and other natural resource activities. Our online portal makes it easy to apply for and renew licenses.
Apply NowLand Management
We oversee more than 3 million acres of state forests, parks, and wildlife management areas, providing recreational opportunities while protecting ecosystems.
Find a ParkEnvironmental Education
Our educational programs reach over 200,000 students annually through field trips, classroom visits, and online resources promoting environmental literacy.
Learn MoreWildlife Conservation
We implement habitat restoration projects, species recovery programs, and wildlife research to ensure the health of animal populations across the state.
View ProjectsWater Resources
We monitor and protect water quality in lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands while managing water allocation for competing needs.
Water DataForest Health
Our forestry program promotes sustainable forest management, fire prevention, and pest control to maintain healthy forest ecosystems.
Forest ServicesKey Programs
Urban Conservation Initiative
This program brings nature into urban environments, creating community gardens, restoring urban waterways, and establishing park spaces in underserved neighborhoods.
Climate Resilience Project
We're working to help natural systems and communities adapt to climate change through strategic habitat restoration, research, and planning.
Youth Outdoor Adventure Program
This initiative connects young people with the outdoors through camping trips, wilderness experiences, and environmental education camps.
Agricultural Conservation
We partner with farmers to implement practices that protect soil and water resources while supporting sustainable agriculture.
Native Species Recovery
Focusing on threatened and endangered species, this program works to restore habitat and support recovery of our most vulnerable wildlife.
Sustainable Forestry Certification
We provide certification assistance to forest landowners interested in sustainable management practices and carbon sequestration opportunities.
Conservation Efforts
Our conservation strategies are designed to protect biodiversity, maintain ecological processes, and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. Recent conservation milestones include:
Protected Lands
+50,000Acres conserved in the last year
Species Recovered
12Species removed from endangered list
Water Quality
85%Water bodies meeting quality standards
Tree Planting
2M+Trees planted in the last decade
Current Priorities
- Wetland Restoration: Reclaiming degraded wetlands to improve water quality and provide wildlife habitat.
- Wildlife Corridors: Creating connected habitat pathways to support animal migration and genetic diversity.
- Invasive Species Control: Managing non-native species that threaten native ecosystems.
- Fire Management: Implementing controlled burns and prevention strategies to reduce wildfire risk.
- Soil Conservation: Working with landowners to prevent erosion and improve soil health.
Data & Statistics
We collect and analyze data to inform our management decisions and track progress toward conservation goals. Some key statistics include:
| Metric | Current Value | Previous Year | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forest Coverage | 62% of state land | 61.8% of state land | Increasing |
| Water Quality Index | 78/100 | 76/100 | Improving |
| Biodiversity Index | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 | Improving |
| Recreation Visits | 12.5 million | 11.8 million | Increasing |
| Carbon Sequestration | 25 million tons/year | 24.2 million tons/year | Increasing |
| Air Quality Days (Good) | 95% | 93% | Improving |
We make much of our data available to researchers, students, and the public through our online data portal, supporting transparency and collaborative conservation efforts.
News & Updates
New State Park Opens in Northern Region
We're excited to announce the opening of our newest state park, featuring 5,000 acres of pristine forest and three lakes for fishing and recreation.
Wildlife Recovery Success: Bald Eagles Removed from State Threatened List
Thanks to decades of conservation efforts, our bald eagle population has rebounded significantly, allowing this iconic species to be removed from the state's threatened species list.
Grant Program Announces $5 Million for Community Conservation
Our new grant program will provide funding to local communities for tree planting, community gardens, and other local environmental improvement projects.
Forest Health Assessment Shows Resilience After Pest Control Measures
Recent surveys indicate that our hemlock forests are recovering well after implementation of biological control measures against invasive pests.
Contact Us
We welcome your questions, feedback, and partnership opportunities. Here's how you can reach us:
123 Conservation Drive
State Capital, 12345
Main: (555) 123-4567
Permits: (555) 123-4568
Emergency: (555) 123-4569
info@dnre.state.gov
permits@dnre.state.gov
education@dnre.state.gov
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
For regional offices and specific departments, please visit our full directory.
Full Staff Directory
