Here are the key takeaways that stand out in the reauthorization bills:

• Reauthorized through 2028
  
  
• Funded at $13.25 million/year (Reduced from $33 Million)
  
  
• Little to no funding for land acquisition
  
  
• $1,000,000 must be set aside for grants to friends’ groups and NCOs for property development activities on DNR property.

While the assembly has voted in favor of this current reauthorization proposal, it now moves to the state senate for discussion and vote. If approved, it will proceed to the Governor’s desk for review and possible signing in.

What this Means

While on one side it’s nice to hear of Knowles-Nelson being reauthorized, this form of reauthorization is merely extending the program’s while on life support. Drastic funding cuts within this current rendition of the program mean there will be little room for groups to obtain funding through this program to aid in any projects, particularly for our Friends’ groups.

Governor Evers has clearly stated that he will not sign off and reauthorization of Knowles-Nelson without proper funding for land acquisition and land management.

We stand with our fellow partners like Gathering Waters and Sierra Club Wisconsin to advocate for a program that represents both land acquisition and land management. 

Contact Your Senator and the Governor's Office

We urge you to contact your representing district senator and the Governor’s office to reflect your support for a proper and workable reauthorization program that will continue Wisconsin as a leader in conservation and a supporter for cherishing the spaces the define our state.

Together, we can continue to advocate for this vital resource that is important to all of us and for future generations.

Seth Taft
Executive Director, Friends of Wisconsin State Parks
E: execdir@fwsp.org
P: (608) 294-0810
www.fwsp.org