As summer gives way to fall, Wisconsin’s landscape transforms – and so does our political climate. With November elections approaching and the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program up for reauthorization in the 2025 budget, conservation takes center stage.
From summer paddling on the Wisconsin River to fall leaf peeping in the Baraboo Hills, cross-country skiing at Minocqua Winter Park, or spring birding at Horicon Marsh, the seasons showcase how deeply Wisconsin’s way of life depends on protecting natural areas. Beyond supporting outdoor tradition, these lands also safeguard critical wildlife habitat, protect water quality, and preserve biodiversity.
Wisconsin’s natural resources are deeply connected to its protected lands and the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is pivotal in supporting these public areas. As we look toward reauthorization of the Stewardship Program in the next budget cycle, your advocacy can help ensure that Wisconsin’s landscapes remain vibrant, healthy, and accessible for generations to come.
In The Field With State Legislators
Our team has been busy showcasing the impact of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program to state legislators:
August 20: Sarah Keyeski, candidate for SD-14, explored a segment of the Ice Age Trail in Lodi with Gathering Waters and staff from the Ice Age Trail Alliance. They discussed how the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program supports the 1200+ mile National Scenic Trail and the work that goes into keeping those lands protected and maintained.
September 9: Sen. Duey Stroebel (SD-8), Rep. Paul Melotik (AD-24), and SD-8 candidate Jodi Habush Sinykin joined Ozaukee Washington Land Trust, Ozaukee County Planning and Parks, and Gathering Waters for a property tour of Cedar Gorge Clay Bluffs. Ozaukee County’s Andrew Struck led the group on hike to share project updates, demonstrating firsthand the preserve’s ecological significance, its value as a community asset, and how innovative partnerships led to its permanent protection.
Advocacy On The Road
We’re hitting the road this fall to spread the word about Knowles-Nelson and expand the reach of our advocacy coalition. Look for us at these upcoming conferences and please stop by our table to say hello:
2024 Annual Healthy Lakes Conference
Date: September 19
Location: Oconomowoc Lake Club
2024 Wisconsin Counties Association Annual Conference
Date: September 22-24
Location: La Crosse Center
2024 League of Wisconsin Municipalities Annual Fall Conference
Date: October 23-25
Location: Madison Marriott West
2024 Destinations Wisconsin Fall Tourism Conference
Date: November 14-15
Location: Fox Cities Exhibition Center
Take Action: Create Your Knowles-Nelson Postcard
Show your support for the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program by creating a custom postcard advocating for its continued funding and renewal. Visit KnowlesNelson.org/postcards to upload a photo of your favorite protected Wisconsin outdoor place. Add a personal message explaining why the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is important to you and should be renewed. We’ll print and mail your postcard to your state legislators and the governor.
This quick and easy action is an impactful way to show lawmakers why the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is crucial for Wisconsin’s natural heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities. Your personal story can help move the needle for the program’s continued success.
How Has Knowles-Nelson Shaped Your Community?
Knowles-Nelson has been supporting projects across Wisconsin for over 30 years, and we’re keen to hear how these initiatives have shaped and continue to benefit your communities. If you’ve witnessed a Knowles-Nelson project making a lasting impact, we’d love to know so we can showcase it in our newsletter, on our website, and in communications with legislators.
Explore an interactive map on the Team Knowles Nelson website to re-discover projects in your area.
The Whole Is Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts: La Crosse Blufflands
Mississippi Valley Conservancy has shown how incremental progress has led to protection of the iconic landscape.
Protecting Land and Preserving Tradition: Landmark Conservancy + American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation
Landmark Conservancy and the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation join forces to protect Wisconsin’s Northwoods while boosting the local economy.
