In his recent column in the Point/Plover Metro Wire, Rep. Vincent Miresse (D–Stevens Point) urges fellow lawmakers to come together to renew the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, Wisconsin’s flagship conservation fund set to expire in 2026.
Miresse highlighted how Knowles-Nelson has protected “the places we hunt, fish, hike, and paddle” for more than 35 years, supporting over 10,000 projects, preserving 650,000 acres, and ensuring that nearly every Wisconsinite lives within five miles of a Stewardship site.
He noted his disappointment that funding was removed from the latest state budget and added that he has introduced a compromise bill to bridge the gap between the governor’s and Republican proposals.
“Hunting, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors should never be a partisan issue,” Miresse wrote. “At the end of the day, this isn’t about politics—it’s about ensuring that our kids and grandkids can enjoy the same Wisconsin we’ve been blessed with.”
Featured image from Wisconsin State Legislature
