Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Function
The DNR is committed to making the state healthy, sustainable, and livable for all Minnesotans by conserving and managing the state’s natural resources, providing outdoor recreation opportunities, and sustainably providing commercial uses of natural resources. The DNR Conservation Agenda sets long-term strategic direction for natural resources and measures conservation results. DNR staff review and comment on environmental documents, require permits for work in the beds of public waters and for the appropriation of groundwater or surface water, and strives to cooperate on projects such as boat access areas, blue bird nesting, deer reflectors, and more.