New Legislation Introduced to Protect the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program

A renewed effort to safeguard Wisconsin’s lands, waters, and outdoor heritage is underway with the introduction of new legislation to reauthorize the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program. Democratic senators and members of the state assembly have come forward with a new bill that re-authorizes the program for six years at $72 million per year. The bill also creates a bi-partisan, and diverse, advisory board that includes non-government stakeholders from hunting and fishing organizations, outdoor recreation experts, non-profits, and others.

For more than three decades, Knowles-Nelson has helped protect state parks, expand trails, conserve wildlife habitat, and support local projects that improve access to the outdoors. Communities in every legislative district in the state have benefited from these investments which strengthen our economy, improve public health, and ensure everyone has opportunities to enjoy nature close to home.

The newly introduced bill represents a vital step forward after the program was left out of the state budget. Now, legislators will decide whether to continue this legacy of conservation and outdoor recreation, and support from advocates like you will be essential to secure its passage. 

Visit the Wisconsin Bike Fed for more information. https://wisconsinbikefed.org