The mission of the WDNR is "To protect and enhance our natural resources: our air, land and water; our wildlife, fish and forests and the ecosystems that sustain all life.

The appointments made by the Governor are confirmed by the state senate, and each board member serves a six-year staggered term.

The role of the board members is to supervise the actions of the WDNR, make policy, and review the biennial budget.

"The Environmental Management (EM) Division protects human health and the environment by working in partnership with the communities, citizens, businesses and advocacy groups."

The division is continually working to improve the information obtained through feedback and self-evaluation of different projects or policies implemented.

This division consists of: Watershed Management, Environmental Analysis & Sustainability, Customer & Outreach Services, and Community Financial Assistance.

"The purpose of this diverse program is to serve as a primary point of contact for businesses, local government and the public."

The forest provides a lot of ecological services that are very beneficial such as timber products, nutrient cycling, habitat for wildlife, clean air, etc.

[22] The WDNR provides volunteer opportunities for those interested in natural resources, including Adopt a Fish and Wildlife Area, Wisconsin State Park System, State Natural Areas Volunteer Program, Monitoring, and Safety & Education.

Through the Bureau of Natural Heritage Conservation, citizens can help care for Wisconsin’s public lands and native landscapes.

Citizens can also help scientists monitor Wisconsin's plants, animals, water, weather, and soils, or become a volunteer instructor to help and influence other resource users.

[30] Snapshot Wisconsin was launched in partnership with NASA and UW-Madison; the data collected has been used in multiple scientific articles.