The Department of Natural Resources is so much more than the place to get hunting and fishing licenses. From wildlife preservation to gun safety education, the DNR is one of the first places you should check out for Great Lakes area conservation and recreation information. It can even serve as a one-stop vacation planning guide, particularly for campers and hikers. Please note that the DNR is nationwide, but I am focusing on the area I live in for this article.

Conservation is the main focus of DNR. Each state's organization is responsible for the implementation and many times the enforcement of laws that protect the natural resources of the area. Some examples of the conservation efforts include protection of endangered species, waterway stewardship, keeping track of pollution and invasive plant species as well as the preservation of historic landmarks.

Education is another important facet of the DNR. Each state hosts workshops and seminars on a variety of subjects pertaining to the environment and recreation. Some of these education opportunities include sponsoring the Becoming and Outdoors Woman program, hunting safety classes including bow hunting and environmental workshops. All of the states recognize the importance of teaching younger generations to appreciate the importance of preserving the environment and provide special programs just for kids.

Outdoor recreation enthusiasts will find all the information they need to plan their next camping trip through the DNR. Each of the DNR websites for the states surrounding the Great Lakes have extensive listings of state parks with information about each. Park hours, campsite amenities, and seasonal recreation opportunities available are all clearly stated. You can even make camping reservations through the sites and look at maps of the areas you're interested in as well as find lodgings nearby.

Not to be left out are those who love hunting and fishing. All the info you need including licenses and permits is available too. Most of the DNR websites will allow you to either purchase these online or print out an application and mail it in, or tell you where to go to purchase the appropriate permit. Each website has listings of the laws pertinent to hunting and fishing in your area.

The resources that each of the state DNR websites have to offer are too many to list here. Below are links to the DNR websites for the states surrounding the Great Lakes as well as the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources where you can find the same type of info you as would find at the US DNR sites. Check them out to begin taking full advantage of all the information available at your fingertips. Some of the states even have a magazine available by subscription through the DNR sites - just one more way to keep you up-to-date on your state's conservation efforts.