Canoecopia This Week (and More)!

Happy March!

The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks welcomes the new month with open arms. The warmer temperatures and sunny days have us excited for all the upcoming activities scheduled and the plenty of people to meet.

Knowles Nelson Update

Things have (unfortunately) been quiet regarding the reauthorization of Knowles Nelson Stewardship Program. Since it has been pulled from the State Senate floor for action and vote on February 18th, the silence is too loud.

Our latest blog sheds light on what has transpired and how our voices matter now more than ever. Please contact your district legislators to express the need to reauthorize this vital program the supplies funding for Friends groups.

Knowles Nelson Blog

Friends of Wisconsin State Parks on
The Larry Meiller Show

Executive Director Seth Taft will be in-studio on The Larry Meiller Show on Wisconsin Public Radio tomorrow at 11am. Seth and Larry will be discussing Knowles Nelson, its importance to Friends groups, and why Friends groups are the most important support system to Wisconsin's cherished public lands.

Larry Meiller Show

Canoecopia This Weekend!

Paddles up! The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks returns to the World's Largest Paddling Expo this weekend. We are excited to be in attendance to meet so many wonderful people. Stop by our booth space to meet with FWSP board members, Friends groups like Friends of Governor Nelson, and maybe find some sweet swag.

We will also be seeking to Wisconsin resident signatures in our effort to complete the needs of obtaining a special organizer license plate through WisDOT.

Executive Director Seth Taft will be presenting on Friday, March 13th at 4:30pm in the Sylvania Room, "Friendship Matters: The Trail Ahead for Wisconsin State Parks."

Date: March 13th thru 15th
Location: Alliant Energy Center, Madison
More information: Canoecopia

Remembering Bill Lunney

The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks joins the conservation community in remembering Bill Lunney, who passed away over a week ago.

Bill was a tireless champion for public lands and a visionary leader whose impact will be felt for generations. Best known for his decades of leadership with Dane County Parks, Bill helped shape and expand one of Wisconsin’s most beloved park systems through his commitment to conservation, public access, and community engagement.

Bill’s dedication to protecting natural spaces also extended to the Wisconsin State Park System. During his time as a board member of the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks, he helped advance the mission of supporting the parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas that mean so much to people across our state.

His work reminds us that strong parks systems are built through passion, collaboration, and a deep belief that these places belong to everyone.

We are grateful for Bill’s leadership, his generosity of spirit, and the lasting legacy he leaves across Wisconsin’s landscapes.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who were inspired by his life of service.

Read more about Bill's remarkable legacy here.

Share Your Story With Us

Through the years, there have been countless hikes, volunteer days, campfire memories, family traditions, trail runs, paddles, and lifelong friendships formed in these special places.

Now, we want to hear from you

Have a favorite memory with a Friends’ group?

A family tradition in a state park?

A volunteer experience that meant something special?

Submit your story for a chance to be featured on our social media and in our newsletter as we celebrate 30 years of impact and community.

Take a moment to submit your story here: FWSP Story Submission Form

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