Reminder: Vote NO on August 13th
Team Knowles Nelson urges Wisconsin voters to vote NO on two constitutional amendments in the August 13th primary election. These ballot measures could severely impact land conservation efforts by limiting the governor’s ability to direct federal funds to critical projects. Successes like the Pelican River Forest and Ozaukee County Land Trust’s Cedar Gorge Clay Bluffs might not have been possible under these proposed changes.
Read more about why these amendments pose a threat to Wisconsin’s natural resources and emergency response capabilities HERE.
Knowles Nelson Postcard Creator
Share your favorite Wisconsin outdoor experiences by creating a personalized postcard that we’ll send directly to your legislators. Whether it’s hiking, hunting, paddling, or enjoying scenic views, your stories showcase why continued funding for the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is crucial.
Visit KnowlesNelson.org/postcards to upload a photo of a favorite Wisconsin view or outdoor adventure and add a personal message in support of renewing Knowles-Nelson. We’ll print your photo & message on physical postcards and mail them to your state legislators and the governor, advocating for the program’s renewal.
It’s a quick, easy, and impactful way to urge your lawmakers to continue funding and supporting stewardship by showing its impact through your personal experiences. Please share widely with your network and encourage anyone who enjoys Wisconsin’s outdoors to create their own postcard.
Court Ruling Clears Path for Knowles-Nelson
Last month’s WI Supreme Court ruling has reshaped the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, eliminating anonymous objections from the Joint Finance Committee in the grant approval process. As the program nears reauthorization in 2025, the 6-1 ruling underscores the importance of continued support for Wisconsin’s conservation efforts.
The effects are already clear: Knowles-Nelson is back on track and thriving. For the first time in years, the program was fully subscribed to just five weeks into the fiscal year, highlighting the pent up demand for conservation projects. With the Department of Natural Resources back at the helm and legislative roadblocks removed, Knowles-Nelson is set for greater efficiency and lasting success. This renewed momentum provides a strong foundation for continued support of Wisconsin’s natural heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities.
In The Field With State Legislators
June 6, 2024: Rep. Jenna Jacobson (AD-43) toured conservation successes in the Driftless Area. We visited Driftless Area Land Conservancy’s Wild Oaks Preserve, The Prairie Enthusiasts‘ Handrick Grassland, and Groundswell Conservancy’s conservation easement held on Pat & Patricia Hermen’s Oregon property, discussing prairie restoration, carbon sequestration, and the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program’s impact on Wisconsin’s natural spaces.
July 15, 2024: Rep. Travis Tranel (AD-49) toured Mississippi Valley Conservancy’s Plum Creek Conservation Area. The group discussed the property’s history, ongoing restoration effort, and the crucial role of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program in supporting land conservation and Wisconsin’s outdoor recreation economy.
July 17, 2024: Gathering Waters’ Executive Director Mike Carlson presented Dr. Robert Freckmann with the 2024 Harold “Bud” Jordahl Lifetime Achievement Award at Schmeeckle Reserve. Senator Patrick Testin (SD-24) and other community leaders attended the ceremony, which honored Dr. Freckmann’s long-time support of North Central Conservancy Trust, his 55-year career at UW-Stevens Point, and his ongoing work with the Freckmann Herbarium. Dr. Freckmann’s contributions include donating a 32-acre conservation easement to NCCT that serves as an outdoor teaching classroom.
Pelican River Forest Open Roads Maps
The Conservation Fund has shared new maps showing open roads within the Pelican River Forest. The 70,000-acre protected area now offers expanded public access for hunting, fishing, trapping, and sightseeing. Check out the latest road access information HERE.
Knowles Nelson Wins
Groundswell Conservancy was awarded a $492,898 Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grant to establish a conservation easement on a 189-acre working grain farm in Rock County. The property, located near Footville Wildlife Area, features seasonal wetlands and has a long history of public hunting access through the Voluntary Public Access program, and the easement will preserve both agricultural use and upland bird hunting opportunities. Read more about the Bjugstad Conservation Easement HERE.
The Prairie Enthusiasts were awarded a $394,280 Knowles-Nelson grant to acquire 77 acres in Dane County. This ecologically rich property expands existing TPE conservation lands and features springs, coldwater streams, and habitat for 14 rare species. Read more about the Uren Trust Addition HERE.
The recently completed Loop the Locks trail network connects five Fox Valley communities with a 13-mile bike & pedestrian trail along the Fox River. Knowles-Nelson grants to local governments supported multiple segments of this collaboration, and the completed trail showcases how regional cooperation can create vibrant public spaces that benefit everyone. Read more about Loop the Locks HERE.
