Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

**About the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources** Established on July 1, 1995, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is charged with: - Maintaining and protecting 124 state parks - Managing 2.2 million acres of state forest land - Providing information on the state's ecological and geologic resources - Establishing community conservation partnerships with grants and technical assistance to benefit rivers, trails, greenways, local parks and recreation, regional heritage parks, open space, and natural areas. **DCNR Mission** DCNR’s mission is to conserve and sustain Pennsylvania’s natural resources for present and future generations’ use and enjoyment. **DCNR Vision** As Pennsylvania’s leader and chief advocate for conservation and outdoor recreation, DCNR will inspire citizens to: - Value their natural resources - Engage in conservation practices - Experience the outdoors To conserve and maintain Pennsylvania’s public natural resources for the benefit of all people, including generations yet to come, we will take intentional action to ensure DCNR lands are accessible to all, provide inclusive and equitable programs and services, and recruit and retain a diverse workforce.