Opinion | Skewed priorities led to death of Knowles-Nelson
A Cap Times columnist argues that the Legislature’s failure to include Knowles-Nelson reauthorization in surplus spending negotiations reflects skewed priorities that will cost Wisconsin its most important land conservation tool.
Senator Habush Sinykin Statement on the Special Session
The Democratic state senator voted against the surplus spending deal and called on the Legislature to return to session to address Knowles-Nelson expiration alongside other unfinished priorities.
Wisconsin Assembly Dem leader ‘optimistic’ about trifecta control of state government next year
Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer says reviving Knowles-Nelson would be an early priority if Democrats win majority control in November.
$300 stimulus checks, school funding deal fails in Wisconsin Senate
A broader school funding and property tax relief deal that failed in the Wisconsin Senate also left out Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program renewal, which Gov. Evers had flagged as a priority earlier this year.
Knowles-Nelson Update: Another missed opportunity…
Governor Evers and Republican legislative leaders reached a deal on outstanding priorities. Knowles-Nelson reauthorization is not a part of it.
Strong support at spring hearings for increased DNR funding, Stewardship
Wisconsin residents backed Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program reauthorization at a 90% rate in this year’s WCC spring hearings, but the Legislature failed to act before the program’s June expiration.
Conditions and connections shine at 2026 Governor’s Fishing Opener
The annual Governor’s Fishing Opener was founded by Warren Knowles in 1966, the same governor whose conservation legacy lives on in the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.
Devil’s Lake expansion highlights imminent loss of Knowles-Nelson funding
With the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program down to its last $5.5 million and expiring in June, land trusts and conservation nonprofits across the state are reckoning with what comes next.
Without Knowles-Nelson, what happens to Wisconsin conservation?
Without renewed funding for Knowles-Nelson, conservation groups across Wisconsin say future land protection projects, trail expansions, and outdoor recreation access could stall or disappear altogether.
State Lawmakers Highlight Missed Opportunities
With June 30 expiration looming and no compromise in sight, state lawmakers are calling the legislature’s failure to reauthorize the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program inexcusable.
