As the Nation’s principal conservation agency, the Department of the
Interior has responsibility for most of our nationally owned public
lands and natural resources. This includes fostering the wisest use of
our land and water resources, protecting our fish and wildlife, preserving
the environmental and cultural values of our national parks and
historical places, and providing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor
recreation. The Department assesses our energy and mineral
resources and works to assure that their development is in the best
interests of all our people. The Department also has a major responsibility
for American Indian reservation communities and for people
who live in Island Territories under U.S. Administration.