West Virginia
Mountain State ruggedness, Monongahela National Forest, steep ridge whitetail deer, and historic black bear hound hunting.
West Virginia Regulatory Agency
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR)
The Division of Natural Resources within the West Virginia Department of Commerce manages wildlife, state parks, and natural resources across West Virginia's rugged Appalachian mountains.
West Virginia—the Mountain State—offers archery and rifle whitetail deer, black bear, wild turkey, and mountain small game across extensive public lands.
policyMission
To provide and administer a comprehensive program for the conservation, protection, development, and use of West Virginia's natural resources.
assignmentResponsibilities
- Issues resident and non-resident hunting licenses, deer stamps, and bear permits
- Manages state Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and State Forests
- Sets hunting season dates, bag limits, and weapon regulations by county
- Executes habitat enhancement, wild turkey research, and CWD surveillance
- Enforces state wildlife and boating safety laws through Natural Resources Police Officers
starCore Values
- Mountain State Heritage: Honoring West Virginia's deep Appalachian hunting culture.
- Public Access: Providing accessible WMAs and state forest lands.
- Resource Protection: Sustaining healthy game populations through sound management.