The Louisiana Department of Energy and Natural Resources has officially been renamed the Department of Conservation and Energy (DCE), marking the second name change for the agency in just two years.
State officials say the rebranding reflects a modern approach aimed at balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. Agency spokesperson Patrick Courreges highlighted that the new structure will improve policy planning and address ongoing environmental challenges.
When Governor Landry assumed office last year, he signed an executive order reorganizing the agency, which was historically known as the Department of Natural Resources.
As reported by The Advocate, the legislative overhaul also dissolved a groundwater district that had been tasked with preventing saltwater intrusion into the Baton Rouge-area aquifer. Regulation of groundwater is now handled directly by the Department of Conservation and Energy.
Officials say the streamlined permitting process is designed to enhance oversight and enforcement in Louisiana’s oil and gas industry while maintaining environmental safeguards.
