Acquires and protects public lands, oversees permitting that protects natural resources and compliance activities that protect air quality, as well as manages waste cleanups.

Protects and manages more than 575 species of wildlife, more than 200 native species of freshwater fish and more than 500 native species of saltwater fish.

Protects livestock, honey bees and crops from pests and diseases; helps farmers conserve water and prevent water pollution; manages state forest land; and fights wildfires.

Works with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to track diseases that may be related to environmental exposures.