What We Do
The Secretary of Natural Resources advises the Governor on natural resources issues and works to advance the Governor's top environmental priorities. The Secretary oversees six agencies that protect and restore the Commonwealth’s natural and historic resources. The Secretary's office and all of the natural resources agencies work together to uphold the provisions of Article XI of the Virginia Constitution.
- - Article XI, Constitution of Virginia
“To the end that the people have clean air, pure water, and the use and enjoyment for recreation of adequate public lands, waters, and other natural resources, it shall be the policy of the Commonwealth to conserve, develop, and utilize its natural resources, its public lands, and its historical sites and buildings. Further, it shall be the Commonwealth's policy to protect its atmosphere, lands, and waters from pollution, impairment, or destruction, for the benefit, enjoyment, and general welfare of the people of the Commonwealth.”
The Challenge is a friendly competition to encourage state agencies and employees to explore ways to reduce our collective impact upon the environment.
The Green Commonwealth Challenge runs from June 15 to November 15, 2009.
- Green Commonwealth Challenge FAQ (updated July 15th)
(pdf 26k) - Agency Reporting Form
(Excel 23k) - Governor's Letter to State Employees
- DEQ Office of Pollution Prevention
- Achieving E2 certification
- Virginia Green Certified facilities that can be used for conferences and meetings
- Report on Energy Conservation by State Agencies
Governor Kaine Signs Mid-Atlantic Ocean Agreement
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Governor Kaine has made land conservation a primary goal of his administration. To that end, he has set a challenge to permanently protect 400,000 acres of land. Among the many benefits of such a conservation effort: maintaining water quality, providing additional opportunities for recreation, and preserving wildlife habitat and historic landscapes. Learn more about our progress towards the 400,000 acres goal. |
Where do I report pollution complaints?
If there is a threat to health or property, please call 911. The Department of Environmental Quality's Pollution REsponse Program, known as PREP, provides for responses to air, water, and waste pollution incident.