Department of Conservation and Recreation Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
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Home » About Us

About DCR

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is the state's lead natural resource conservation agency. DCR protects what Virginians care about - natural habitat, parks, clean water, dams, open space and access to the outdoors.

What We Do

DCR enables and encourages people to enjoy and benefit from Virginia's natural and cultural resources

What We Value

DCR values diversity of nature, culture and communities to ensure a sustainable and equitable future for recreational access and a healthy environment for all Virginians to enjoy.

How We Do It

DCR accomplishes its mission through funding, expertise, education, acquisition and improved access.


Useful Links

  • Organizational Chart
  • Code of Ethics
  • Contact DCR
  • Employee Search
  • DCR's Flickr photo collection


Governor Youngkin
Governor Glenn Youngkin
Director Wells
DCR Director Matthew Wells

Employee Search

Note: Enter at least the first letter of the last name.


FOIA

Click here to send a note to DCR's Freedom of Information Act officer.


Locations

  • Google map thumbnail.Use Google Maps to locate DCR' main location in downtown Richmond. There are parking spots on streets around the building, but downtown parking is limited. Here's an interactive map of nearby lots.
  • DCR's seven soil and water conservation regional offices
  • State Park locations
  • Natural Area Preserves

 

Just part of the team

DCR is one of five agencies under the Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources, who serves at the pleasure of the governor. The others are:
  • Department of Environmental Quality
  • Department of Wildlife Resources
  • Department of Historic Resources
  • Virginia Marine Resources Commission
The Virginia Outdoors Foundation is also affiliated.
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
600 East Main Street, 24th floor | Richmond, VA 23219-2094 | 804-786-6124
Please send website comments to web@dcr.virginia.gov
Address general inquiries to pcmo@dcr.virginia.gov
Copyright © 2025, All Rights Reserved
Last Modified: Wednesday, 28 May 2025, 02:45:47 PM
eVA Transparency Reports View the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation's expenditures.
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DCR Organizational Chart (PDF) | Strategic Plan (PDF) | Executive Progress Report (PDF) | Public Safety & Law Enforcement