Division of Natural Resources

The mission of the Division of Natural Resources (DNR) is to provide a comprehensive program for the exploration, conservation, development, protection, enjoyment and use of the state’s renewable natural resources. The agency preserves and protects natural areas of unique or exceptional scenic, scientific, cultural, archaeological or historic significance while also providing countless outdoor recreational opportunities for West Virginia residents and visitors.

Division of Natural Resources has 3 primary divisions:

Agency Role:

  • DNR’s Wildlife Resources Section conserves , protects and manages the state’s fish and wildlife resources for the use and enjoyment of its citizens. The primary objective of the section is to maintain and perpetuate fish and wildlife at levels compatible with the available habitat, while providing diverse opportunities for recreation, research, conservation and education.
  • West Virginia State Parks Section promotes conservation by preserving and protecting natural areas of unique or exceptional scenic, scientific, cultural, archaeological or historical significance. Additionally the section provides outdoor recreational opportunities for the citizens of West Virginia and its visitors.
  • The Law Enforcement Section  conserves and protects the natural resources of the state by strict enforcement, education and public awareness, thereby promoting voluntary compliance with all state laws.
  • The Office of Land and Streams carries out the real estate title, acquisition and management of all recreational property owned or long-term leased by the division in the state. The program manages the beds of the state’s rivers and streams that are owned by the division.
  • West Virginia Mineral Development holds title to certain lands and mineral resources in the state.The Division of Natural Resources administers and manages those lands to provide for the conservation, development, protection, enjoyment and use of the state’s natural resources by its citizens and visitors.

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
324 Fourth Ave
South Charleston, WV 25303
(304) 558-2754
DNR.Wildlife@wv.govwvdnr.gov


West Virginia State Parks

West Virginia State Parks
324 Fourth Ave
South Charleston, WV 25303
(304) 558-2754
DNR.Parks@wv.gov


Law Enforcement

Law Enforcement
324 Fourth Ave
South Charleston, WV 25303
(304) 558-2754
DNR.Law@wv.gov


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