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AGENCY INFORMATION

OUR MISSION

Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is a separate governing agency, created in 1994 by the Mississippi Legislature, with the mission to enhance, protect and conserve the state’s marine interests. MDMR manages all marine life, public trust wetlands, adjacent uplands and waterfront areas to provide optimal commercial, recreational, educational and economical uses of these resources that are consistent with environmental concerns and social changes.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
JOE SPRAGGINS

ENHANCE. PROTECT. CONSERVE.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is home to some of the nation’s most productive shellfish and finfish waters. The livelihood of many generations depends on the coastal waters and its rich, natural resources. Mississippi’s coastal resources have sustained a growing economy and contributes greatly to the culture and heritage that define Mississippi Gulf Coast natives as a people.

 

The MDMR plays an important role in administering state and federal mandates, such as Mississippi Seafood Laws, the Mississippi Coastal Wetlands Protection Act, the Public Trust Tidelands Act, the Boat and Water Safety Act, the Derelict Vessel Act, the Non-Point Source Pollution Act, the Magnuson Act, the Wallop-Breaux Sportfish Restoration Act, Marine Litter Act.