Knowles Nelson Set for Senate Floor Action This Wednesday

On Friday morning, the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions and Sporting Heritage voted 3-2 in favor of Senate Bills 316 and 685. Senate will move into session this coming Wednesday where the bills will be addressed and voted on.

There are two key issues in the current versions of the reauthorization bills that affect our Friends' groups:

Issue 1.  Knowles Nelson grants require a 50% match. To help with raising the match amount, most applicants apply for federal, local, or other state grants to help with the match amount.

The new KN Bill would only allow for a 30% maximum amount to be raised from other grants.  This would severely restrain most Friend's groups, NCO's, and local municipalities from raising enough funds to move forward with any projects.

This is taking a vital funding resource into the wrong direction to help volunteers from completing projects, maintenance, naturalist programs, and many other benefits volunteers are willing to provide in lieu of adequate state funding. 

Issue 2. The total grant amount for Friends groups is increased to $1,000,000 from $500,000. Currently the maximum grant amount per applicant is $20,000. With the increase in amount the maximum should be increased to $40,000.

Another suggestion would be to increase the grant percentage from 50% of project cost to 75% of project cost.

Taking Action Now.

Today and tomorrow are crucial in connecting with your senator, representative, and governor. There are a number of incredible resources at your disposal through the Team Knowles Nelson Website. 

Team Knowles Nelson Take Action Resources

We ask you share these issues with your district legislators, and encourage strong work between senators to ensure Knowles Nelson is reauthorized with adequate funding, proper rules, and remain a vital asset to Wisconsin's conservation efforts.

HERO Award Nominations Due by February 27th

Reminder that HERO Award nominations are still open! Submit your nomination for any of the three categories:

• Outstanding Member of a Friends’ Groups
• Outstanding Friends’ Group
• Outstanding Property Manager

Nominations are due on February 27^th. Please take the time to review the nomination process and submit who you think is “Hero” worthy.

2026 HERO Award Nomination Form

Sign Up for Digital and Social Media Webinar!

Sign up to learn more from digital/social media marketer Laura Kaiser on February 24^th at 6pm.

Laura brings years of experience in creating and promoting successful businesses with creative content to engage users. If you are seeking to grow your social media presence, bring more awareness of your Friends’ group, then consider participating in this engaging webinar! Link to sign up can be found below.