Acts and Regulations establish the basis of the authority, which DN has been given to manage natural resources. The Directorate is also responsible for monitoring the state of wildlife and the natural environment, and for identifying, preventing and solving environmental problems. This work is intended to take place through co-operation with, and advice and information to, sectors of the population and other public authorities, both in Norway and other countries.

Primary objective
DN must preserve biological diversity and strengthen the common right of access to the countryside.

This means we have to:

• Secure the breadth of variation in Norwegian wildlife and scenery, and maintain the natural ability for production.
• See to it that concern for long-term management of natural resources forms the basis of land-use planning, planning of watercourse utilisation, and plans for other activities that may disturb wildlife and the countryside.
• Further the opportunities for using the countryside and natural environments for recreation and harvesting.
• Acquire and pass on knowledge that forms a basis for active and preventive nature management.

To attain these goals, DN must focus broadly on its role as an imparter and increase its co-operation with other public-sector authorities and organized interest groups in society as a whole.

Central tasks

1. Secure the diversity of nature for future generations
2. Take care of animals and plants
3. Strengthen the common right of access
4. Follow up international obligations