06/04/2026
The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin is deeply disappointed that a bipartisan agreement to extend funding to the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program could not be reached before the June 30, 2026, deadline. Letting funding for this program lapse puts the land, waters and outdoor traditions that define our state at risk.
For more than 30 years, the bipartisan Stewardship Program has conserved hundreds of thousands of acres of Wisconsin’s wild spaces; protected critical watersheds and wildlife habitat, and expanded public access to the outdoors — strengthening our communities and local economies. Statewide polling commissioned by The Nature Conservancy shows an extraordinary 93% of Wisconsin voters support continued public funding for conservation through Knowles-Nelson — support that has remained above 90% for a decade.
We will continue working with both Democratic and Republican legislators and the next governor to restore long-term, stable funding that reflects the clear will of Wisconsin voters and safeguards our state’s most treasured outdoor resources for generations to come.
(Photo by Chris Helzer)
