We have big news to share about the Knowles-Nelson reauthorization process. The Vice-Chairs of the Joint Finance Committee, Representative Tony Kurtz and Senator Pat Testin, have introduced LRB-0036/LRB-3557 as a starting point for negotiations in the Legislature. Their proposal includes policy changes and provides funding for Knowles-Nelson for the next four years.
Wisconsinites’ support for Knowles-Nelson is clear: over 90% of voters back reauthorization; 27 local governments have passed supportive resolutions; and thousands of you have contacted legislators. The message is being heard. Your advocacy matters!
We expect this bill to move quickly. Today, Rep. Kurtz and Sen. Testin are circulating drafts for co-sponsorship. Committee hearings could take place as soon as next week, and the committees in the Senate and Assembly will be able to make amendments. This will be an important opportunity for input and engagement from members of the Team Knowles Nelson community.
Based on our initial assessment, there are several positives in this bill. Grant funding levels for land trusts and local governments remain stable. Land trusts would become eligible for habitat management grants, an area of immense need that has been lacking in Wisconsin. And the bill provides four years of funding, which offers some certainty to plan future conservation projects.
There are also undoubtedly ways that the bill could be improved through the legislative process. Today, we’re delving into the details of the bill and we will be in touch with you soon to share our analysis.
We look forward to working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and the Governor’s office to craft a Knowles-Nelson reauthorization that works for Wisconsin. That’s because we all want to care for our land, water, wildlife, and our Wisconsin way of life.
We will keep you updated as we assess the legislation, as committee hearings are scheduled, and as we identify opportunities to weigh in on this bill.
Featured image from Gathering Waters staff, 2025
