Department of Conservation and Recreation (Massachusetts)

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is a state agency of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, situated in the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. It is best known for its parks and parkways. As of May 24, 2011 the Commissioner of the DCR is Edward M. Lambert, Jr. The DCR's mission is "To protect, promote and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural and recreational resources."

History

DCR lands and roads formerly belonged to the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM). Under Governor Mitt Romney, the MDC and DEM were merged to form the DCR.

Ownership and management for non-pedestrian bridges was transferred to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation in 2009.

Structure

The DCR is under the general management of the Commissioner of the DCR. The general administration divisions; Human Resources Division, the Financial Division, and External and Legislative Affairs, report directly to the Commissioner. Additionally, five operating units, under the general direction of a Deputy Commissioner of Operations, carry out the day to work and project execution of the agency. The five operating units are:

• Bureau of State Parks and Recreation
• Bureau of Urban Parks and Recreation
• Bureau of......
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