St. Croix 360 reported that the Village of Osceola has been awarded a $710,347.50 Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grant for improvements to Cascade Falls.
“This grant will allow us to preserve and enhance access to Cascade Falls, one of Osceola’s most cherished natural assets. We’re excited to improve accessibility, protect the natural environment, and create more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of this area,” said Osceola Village Administrator Devin Swanberg.
The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, established in 1989, funds both state land projects and provides matching grants to local governments and nonprofits. Its goal is to preserve natural areas, protect wildlife habitats, and expand outdoor recreation opportunities across Wisconsin. In Polk County alone, the Stewardship program has invested over $26 million in parks, boat ramps, trails, and natural areas.
The Cascade Falls project plans include constructing a new, wider stairway on the south side of the Cascade overpass, featuring fewer switchbacks to improve accessibility. Set to begin in 2025, these improvements will make the falls more visitor-friendly while preserving the site’s natural beauty.
This story also received coverage from The Osceola Sun.
Featured image by paulpickett, 2016.
