As the Nation's principal conservation agency, the Depart- 

 ment of the Interior has responsibility for most of our 

 nationally owned public lands and natural resources. This 

 includes fostering the wisest use of our land and water re- 

 sources, protecting our fish and wildlife, preserving the en- 

 vironmental and cultural values of our national parks and 

 historical places, and providing for the enjoyment of life 

 through outdoor recreation. The Department assesses our 

 energy and mineral resources and works to assure that their 

 development is in the best interests of all our people. The 

 Department also has a major responsibility for American 

 Indian reservation communities and for people who live in 

 island territories under U.S. administration. 



