The External Services Division was created though the Department of Natural Resources 2016 and 2017 alignment initiative. This division consists of: Watershed Management, Environmental Analysis & Sustainability, Customer & Outreach Services, and Community Financial Assistance. "The purpose of this diverse program is to serve as a primary point of contact for businesses, local government and the public." Through this division, a well-rounded integration of the local government and public are reached. In collaboration with other divisions and other agencies, the WDNR is able to apply more parameters when it comes to making a decision about a project or other initiatives.