The Natural Resources Department in a District Local Government in Uganda is mandated to ensure the sustainable utilization, conservation, and management of the district's natural heritage. Headed by the District Natural Resources Officer (DNRO), this department is crucial for balancing economic development with environmental protection, given that a significant portion of Uganda's population relies directly on natural resources for their livelihoods.   

Operating under the provisions of the Constitution of Uganda (Article 237 (2) b), the National Environment Act, the Forestry Act, and the Lands Act, the department plays a pivotal role in implementing national policies, laws, and regulations related to natural resource management at the local level. Its core objective is to promote responsible stewardship of natural assets for the benefit of both present and future generations.   

Key functions of the Natural Resources Department include:

• Environmental Management and Conservation: Overseeing the protection of the district's environment, including pollution control, waste management, climate change adaptation, and promoting sustainable environmental practices. This involves conducting Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for development projects.   
• Wetlands Management: Protecting and restoring wetlands, which are vital for water purification, biodiversity, and climate regulation. This includes regulating activities within wetlands and promoting community awareness on their importance.   
• Forestry Management: Promoting afforestation, reforestation, and sustainable forest management practices. This involves regulating logging, monitoring forest reserves (including local forest reserves), and encouraging agroforestry and tree planting initiatives among communities.   
• Land Management and Physical Planning: Providing services related to land use planning, land tenure regularization, surveying, physical planning, and enforcement of land use regulations. This aims to ensure orderly development, minimize land conflicts, and promote sustainable land management practices. It also involves working with the District Land Board.   
• Biodiversity Conservation: Implementing strategies to safeguard biodiversity, protect endangered species, and restore degraded ecosystems within the district.
• Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement: Monitoring compliance with environmental laws, regulations, and district ordinances. This includes issuing permits and licenses for activities such as tree cutting and wetland utilization, and taking enforcement actions against violations.   
• Community Mobilization and Sensitization: Creating awareness among communities and stakeholders about the importance of natural resources, sustainable utilization practices, and their roles in environmental protection. This often involves extension services and public education programs.   
• Data Collection and Reporting: Collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data on the state of natural resources in the district, and preparing reports such as the annual District State of Environment Report.   
• Coordination and Partnership: Liaising with relevant central government ministries (e.g., Ministry of Water and Environment, Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development), government agencies (e.g., NEMA, NFA), NGOs, CBOs, and local communities to harmonize efforts and mobilize resources for natural resource management.   

The department is typically structured into sub-sectors focusing on Environment and Wetlands, Forestry, and Lands and Physical Planning. By integrating these functions, the Natural Resources Department contributes significantly to the district's sustainable development, poverty reduction, and improved livelihoods for its residents.