Department of Natural Resources

The Department of Natural Resources is responsible for protecting and managing the forests, fish and wildlife, and overseeing the development of mineral resources in New Brunswick. As part of this management, we are responsible for Crown Land management and wildfire management. We are working with partners, stakeholders and subject matter experts to continue shaping the future of New Brunswick’s forestry, mineral, and fish and wildlife sectors.

• Managing public forests to balance environmental, economic, and social interests, including determining timber supplies and conserving biodiversity.
• Overseeing resource exploration and development, including oil and gas, minerals, peat and aggregate.  
• Preventing, detecting and responding to wildfires.
• Authorizing the leasing and licensing for the use of Crown lands.   
• Licensing, permitting and providing programs related to hunting, fishing and trapping.
• Understanding and promoting New Brunswick’s geology to support resource development and land-use planning.

• Ensure that Crown lands are managed for the long-term prosperity of New Brunswickers.
• Maintain biodiversity, manage, and protect lands while considering the threats of climate change.
• Responsibly create jobs and economic growth in the forestry, mining, and fish and wildlife sectors.
• Maintain a competitive and resilient forest sector.
• Responsibly develop our resources.