Washington State Department of Natural Resources

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Washington State Department of Natural Resources

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is a state agency in Washington responsible for managing over 5.6 million acres of state-owned lands. These lands include forests, agricultural lands, aquatic lands, and commercial properties. The DNR's mission is to manage these resources sustainably to benefit the environment, economy, and people of Washington.

History

The DNR was established in 1957, consolidating several state agencies and commissions that previously managed state lands. The agency was created to provide a unified approach to land management and to ensure that state lands are used in a way that benefits the public.

Functions and Responsibilities

The DNR has several key responsibilities, including:

• **Forest Management**: The DNR manages state forests to ensure sustainable timber production, protect wildlife habitat, and provide recreational opportunities. This includes overseeing timber sales, reforestation, and forest health initiatives.
• **Aquatic Lands Management**: The DNR manages over 2.6 million acres of aquatic lands, including tidelands, shorelands, and the beds of navigable waters. These lands are managed for public use, environmental protection, and economic benefit.
• **Geology and Earth Resources**: The DNR's Division of Geology and Earth Resources provides information on the state's geology, mineral resources, and geologic hazards. This includes conducting research, mapping, and providing technical assistance.
• **Fire Protection**: The DNR is responsible for wildfire prevention and suppression on state and private forest lands. This includes coordinating with local fire districts, providing firefighting resources, and conducting fire prevention education.
• **Recreation**: The DNR manages numerous recreational areas, including trails, campgrounds, and natural areas. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Leadership

The DNR is led by the Washington Commissioner of Public Lands, an elected official who serves a four-year term. The Commissioner oversees the agency's operations and sets policy direction. The current Commissioner is .

Programs and Initiatives

The DNR operates several programs and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable land management and environmental stewardship. Some of these include:

• **Forest Practices Program**: This program regulates logging and other forest practices on state and private lands to protect water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and other environmental values.
• **Natural Heritage Program**: This program identifies and protects rare and endangered plant species and ecosystems in Washington.
• **Aquatic Reserves Program**: This program establishes and manages aquatic reserves to protect important marine and freshwater habitats.

Related Pages

• Washington Commissioner of Public Lands
• Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
• Washington State Department of Ecology
• Washington State Legislature

See Also

• List of Washington state agencies
• Natural resource management
• Sustainable forestry
• Wildfire prevention