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The Wildlife Diversity Unit is responsible for conserving, restoring, and protecting the state’s nongame wildlife resources through the identification and management of nongame species and their habitats. The Wildlife Diversity Unit also seeks to inform and educate the public about the state’s natural resources, promote conservation, and enhance recreational opportunities. The State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) provides overarching guidance for this charge.

The West Virginia Wildlife Diversity Unit and Natural Heritage Program are responsible for those species listed by the federal government as threatened or endangered, rare plants, and nongame wildlife and their habitats. Through the SWAP, Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) and their habitats are identified, threats to SGCN are determined, and conservation plans are developed.