Wisconsin State Capitol building's domed roof behind peeks out from several green trees.

2026 WISCONSIN CONSERVATION CONGRESS

Citizen Resolution Submission Period
January 5–February 9

Each year, Wisconsin residents have a formal opportunity to help shape natural resource policy through the Wisconsin Conservation Congress. The Congress is a citizen-led advisory body that gathers public input on issues affecting Wisconsin’s land, water, wildlife, and outdoor recreation.

From January 5 through February 9, Wisconsin residents may submit citizen resolutions for Wisconsin Conservation Congress’ 2026 Spring Hearing. These written proposals are submitted by individual residents in their county and introduced at local hearings held each April. Resolutions that receive support advance through a statewide advisory review in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and are ultimately shared with the Natural Resources Board.

Learn More >>

Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program Citizen Resolution
For the 2026 cycle, we are asking supporters to submit a citizen resolution calling for permanent funding and reauthorization of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.
The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is set to expire in June 2026. This resolution would call for permanent funding to ensure continued conservation of publicly accessible land and continued access for hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife watching, and other outdoor recreation across Wisconsin.
We have already developed the resolution language to meet Conservation Congress requirements. Each submission is made by an individual resident in their county, using the same resolution text. When residents in multiple counties submit the resolution, it helps demonstrate the statewide support for the Stewardship Program.
The resolution text below is complete and ready to submit. You do not need to write your own language, simply use the template provided when completing the submission form.

Submit A Knowles-Nelson Citizen Resolution

1. Review the resolution text
Review the provided Knowles-Nelson citizen resolution template. You may submit it exactly as written or make minor edits, as long as the core intent remains the same. View template >>

2. Submit your resolution through the DNR
Submit the resolution using the DNR’s official 2026 Citizen Resolution Submittal Form between January 5 and February 9.

3. Attend your county’s spring hearing
You, or a designee, must be able to attend the in-person spring hearing in your county on April 13 to introduce your resolution.

4. Let us know you submitted
After submitting, please let us know so we can share reminders and updates as the resolution moves through the process.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN…
  • You must be a Wisconsin resident.
  • You, or a designee, must be available to present your resolution at your county Spring Hearing on Monday, April 13, 2026, between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm.
  • Each individual may submit up to two resolutions per year.
More information about Spring Hearings and the citizen resolution process is available from the DNR. Read More >>

submitted resolutions by County

67
grants to support the Ice Age Trail
700,000
Wisconsin acres protected by Knowles-Nelson
$450 Million
in grants to nonprofits and local governments
17%
of Wisconsin land is conserved
2,600
Grants to support local parks, trails and campgrounds
$2.5 billion
annual economic value of Knowles-Nelson lands
1,600
grants to support Wisconsin Boating facilities
$11.00
annual cost per Wisconsin resident
$24 Billion
forestry industry supported
Team Knowles Nelson badge with a bird taking flight.

Thanks! We'll keep you in the loop about Team Knowles Nelson.