DNR is the steward of more than 2.6 million acres of state-owned aquatic lands and manages these lands as a trust for the people of Washington state. Aquatic lands are navigable lakes, rivers, streams, and marine waters, such as Puget Sound. DNR is directed by statue to manage state-owned aquatic lands through the following goals:
- Encourage direct public use and access.
- Foster water-dependent uses.
- Ensure environmental protection.
- Promote continuing production of renewable resources.
- Allow suitable state aquatic lands to be used for mineral and material production.
- Generate income from use of aquatic lands, consistent with the previous goals.
DNR scientists and researchers and their partners help DNR make science-based management decisions that improve and protect the long-term health of these aquatic lands.
Aquatic Land Leasing and other uses
Using state-owned aquatic lands requires a use authorization from DNR. Learn more about leasing and using state-owned aquatic lands.