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Virginia Department of Wildlife ResourcesAn official website of the Commonwealth of Virginia Here's how you knowAn official websiteHere's how you know

Annual Report 2024: A Year in Review

DWR works every day to lead wildlife conservation and inspire people to value the outdoors and their role in nature. Here’s a look back on the successes and unforgettable events that have shaped our 2024!

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Conserve. Connect. Protect.

DWR has been a steward of the outdoors since 1916, leading in wildlife conservation and inspiring people to value the outdoors and their role in nature.

How Do We Fund What We Do?

You might be surprised to know that Virginia DWR is primarily funded from sources other than Virginia general tax dollars.

A lot of our funding to help conserve wildlife and habitat comes from public spending on things like fishing and hunting licenses, tags, or stamps, boat registrations, and via a federal excise tax on firearms and ammunition.

Those sources of financial support have helped us protect hundreds of species and their habitat for over 100 years, but there’s always more we can do for Virginia’s wildlife. That’s where you come in. You too can become a steward of the outdoors by supporting our work or working with us — whether you hunt, fish, and boat or simply enjoy the outdoors.

How You Can Help
The Outdoors Are Better Together

Contribute to a Cause

Your contributions can help us restore wildlife habitat when you become a Restore the Wild member or connect youth to the outdoors through the Virginia Wildlife Grant Program!

Volunteer & Mentorship

Whether you volunteer with us, take the time to mentor a new hunter, or refer a friend to go hunting or fishing, you can make a difference!

Virginia Wildlife Magazine

In the May–June 2025 issue…

This issue begins with a look at how the North Fork Holston River has rebounded from decades of pollution to host a wide variety of aquatic species. Then, read about how one woman's vision and generosity helped create a haven for wildlife in the Alleghany Highlands. We recognize the winners of the Restore the Wild Artwork Competition, explain how to make the most of a pond with family activities, and introduce you to a second-generation conservationist on the Eastern Shore. Finally, Mission Bivalve looks at the remarkable accomplishments of the world's largest oyster restoration project.

Shop DWR

Your purchases support the Virginia Wildlife Grant Program, connecting kids to the outdoors.