The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024!
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources was created on July 1, 1974, during the broadest changes in Missouri state government, which included the reorganization of the executive branch into 14 departments. Under the Omnibus State Reorganization Act of 1974 and Missouri Revised Statutes, section 640.010, RSM, the Missouri General Assembly established the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to consolidate state agencies concerned with some phase of the land, air, water, energy and cultural resources of the state. This was done to provide better government service to citizens by coordinating the work of state agencies, making them operate more economically, and responsively.
Consolidated into the newly established Missouri Department of Natural Resources where the already established Division of Geological Survey, Missouri state park system and State Historic Preservation Office. The department assumed the broad responsibilities for programs assuring the wise use of land, air and water resources, and administering state parks and historic sites.
Throughout the decades, the department has adapted and taken on additional responsibilities as new environmental issues are discovered. The department continues to aspire to help Missouri citizens thrive by balancing a healthy environment with a healthy economy. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of many, we have made significant improvements to our state's air, land and water resources and provided educational resources about Missouri's natural and cultural history. We will continue to work to provide all Missourians a healthy environment in which to live, work and enjoy the outdoors.