The Senate held its final floor session of the year earlier this week without taking action on the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program.
The focus now shifts to the negotiations about tax cuts and school funding that are reported to be ongoing between the governor’s office and legislative leaders.
Governor Evers says he’s optimistic that a compromise can be reached, and some legislators are telling constituents that Knowles-Nelson is part of those conversations. The timing is unclear, but legislators are telling us they hope to return in April to get it done.
For us, it means the work continues. There’s still a path to funding Knowles-Nelson before it expires in June, and legislators are feeling the heat of that looming deadline. Our job is to make sure that doesn’t change.
Knowles-Nelson Needs Your Vote On April 13
The Wisconsin Conservation Congress is a citizen-led body that advises the state on natural resource policy — and every year, a Spring Hearing is held in all 72 counties where the public can weigh in on the issues that matter most.
Thanks to your efforts, citizen resolutions calling for the reauthorization of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program were submitted in over 50 counties and will be on the questionnaire at this year’s Spring Hearing.
The 2026 Spring Hearing will take place at 6:00 p.m. on April 13. Online voting will also be open from April 13-15. Show up, bring a neighbor, and make your voice heard.
Learn more about the Wisconsin Conservation Congress Spring Hearing HERE>>
In the Field and on the Floor
Senator Jodi Habush Sinykin joined Gathering Waters and land trust professionals from across the state at the Wisconsin Land Trust Conference earlier this month, which included a field trip through the Milwaukee River watershed to see the work of Restoring Lands and Milwaukee Area Land Conservancy firsthand. It’s no surprise she made the time – Sen. Habush Sinykin has been one of the most steadfast champions for Knowles-Nelson in the Legislature.
Earlier this week, when Republican leadership left reauthorization off the Senate calendar, she pushed back. In her statement following the session, she said: “I also offered an amendment to reauthorize the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program for one additional year, which would give the Legislature time and ensure the program does not lapse. Republicans rejected this idea — just like they did during February’s floor day.”
We’re grateful to have her in our corner — and we hope to see more legislators following her lead!
If You’re Looking For a Sign, This is It…
Land doesn’t protect itself — and neither does Knowles-Nelson. Regardless of what happens over the next few weeks, our work in advocating for the Stewardship Program doesn’t stop. We’re rolling out new Knowles-Nelson yard signs to continue raising awareness and to remind people across the state what Wisconsin stands to lose without it.
Interested in displaying one at your home, business, or near a Knowles-Nelson protected property? Fill out the request form below and we’ll be in touch when the next batch is ready.
Upcoming Listening Sessions
Legislators may be done in Madison for now, but that means many are heading back to their home districts for listening sessions, town halls, and office hours. These are great opportunities to advocate for Knowles-Nelson, thank our champions, and remind others that their constituents are paying attention.
PS. If you connect with your legislators, let us know how it went!
Top News
Watch:
WBAY | Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program set to expire June 30
Channel 3000 | Wisconsin’s land conservation program faces uncertain future
Listen:
Okayest Hunter Podcast | Why Wisconsin’s Knowles-Nelson Fund Is at Risk (And What Hunters Can Do Now)
Hunt Quietly Podcast | Wisconsinites want conservation and access, their politicians do not
The Larry Meiller Show | The latest on renewing Knowles-Nelson; Sustaining an eco-friendly diet; Canoecopia 2026 launches
