About DCR

The Department of Conservation and Recreation is steward of one of the largest state parks systems in the country.  Its 450,000 acres is made up of forests, parks, greenways, historic sites and landscapes, seashores, lakes, ponds, reservoirs and watersheds.

Contact Us:
Department of Conservation and Recreation
251 Causeway Street, Suite 600
Boston, MA 02114-2104

DCR Main Phone: 617-626-1250
DCR Main Fax: 617-626-1351

E-Mail: mass.parks@state.ma.us

Community Relations Group Line: 617-626-4973

DCR Mission

To protect, promote and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural and recreational resources.

In meeting today's responsibilities and planning for tomorrow, DCR's focus is on:

• Improving outdoor recreational opportunities and natural resource conservation
• Restoring and improving our facilities
• Expanding public involvement in carrying out DCR's mission, and
• Establishing first-rate management systems and practices.

The health and happiness of people across Massachusetts depend on the accessibility and quality of our green infrastructure - our natural resources, recreational facilities, and great historic landscapes.  The DCR continues to improve the vital connection between people and the environment.

Divisional Structure of DCR

The Division of State Parks and Recreation maintains nearly 300,000 acres of the state’s forests, beaches, mountains, ponds, riverbanks, trails, and parks outside of the Greater Boston area. The Division protects land and resources on privately and municipally held land through technical assistance, grant and planning programs, policy development, and other services.

The Division of Urban Parks and Recreation has broad management responsibilities for the preservation, maintenance, and enhancement of the natural, scenic, historic, and aesthetic qualities of the environment within the Greater Boston area.

The Division of Water Supply Protection manages and protects the drinking water supply watersheds for Greater Boston. The Division provides technical support to other state agencies, monitors lakes and ponds, well drillers, and rainfall throughout the state.

Planning and Engineering provides professional planning, engineering, design and construction management services in support of DCR’s state parks and forests, urban parks and reservations, and water supply divisions.

Stewardship Council

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Stewardship Council is a thirteen member citizen advisory council appointed by the Governor to work with the Secretary of Environmental Affairs, the Commissioner of Conservation and Recreation, and agency staff. Learn more...

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