About Interior

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Mission and Vision of the Department of the Interior with two bison in the backdrop
Our Vision

Manage Resources. Improve Lives. Create Opportunity.

Our Mission

Steward America’s natural and cultural resources. Deliver actionable science. Honor trust responsibilities to Tribal and Insular communities.

What We Do

The U.S. Department of the Interior was established in 1849 and manages the country's vast public lands, natural resources and cultural heritage, driving strategic resource development and conservation for present and future generations. Through responsible management of our nation’s energy and mineral resources, timber and grazing operations and abundant recreation opportunities, Interior powers American prosperity. The Department also protects wildlife and ecosystems, manages water resources and plays a key role in federal wildland fire management and response activities. This work is done collaboratively with states, local communities and federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Natives and the Native Hawaiian Community (hereafter Native Americans) and with U.S. Territories and the Freely Associated States (hereafter Insular Areas). Interior consults and collaborates with its partners to balance conservation of federal lands and waters with strategic development and appropriate public access.

Our Bureaus & Offices

The U.S. Department of the Interior is a Cabinet-level agency including eleven technical bureaus that manage America's vast natural and cultural resources.  In addition to our bureaus, there are a number of offices that fall under the Office of the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget, Solicitor's Office and Office of Inspector General. 

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