Exhibit 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITIOR We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-3 No. 333-111532) of Natural Resource Partners L.P. and in the related Prospectus of our reports with respect to the following financial statements included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2003: Report Date Financial Statements -------------------- -------------------------------------------------- February 7, 2004 Consolidated Financial Statements of Natural Resource Partners L.P. February 7, 2003 Financial Statements of Western Pocahontas Properties Limited Partnership February 7, 2003 Financial Statements of Great Northern Properties Limited Partnership February 7, 2003 Financial Statements of New Gauley Coal Corporation February 7, 2004 Consolidated Balance Sheet of NRP (GP) LP included as Exhibit 99.1 ERNST & YOUNG LLP Houston, Texas March 3, 2004