EXHIBIT 23.1

                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


     We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to
the use of our reports related to Western Pocahontas Properties Limited
Partnership, Great Northern Properties Limited Partnership and New Gauley Coal
Corporation dated June 3, 2002 in Amendment No. 3 to the Registration Statement
(Form S-1) and related Prospectus of Natural Resource Partners L.P. for the
registration of 4,576,890 Common Units Representing Limited Partner Interests.


                                          /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Houston, Texas

September 6, 2002