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The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is one of the most successful conservation programs in state history, but it’s under threat

Hi John,

Have you ever hiked a quiet trail in the woods, paddled across a pristine lake, or camped under the stars in one of Wisconsin’s beautiful state parks and thought, “I’m so lucky this place exists”?

Chances are, you have the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program to thank. I bet you’re like me. You love these outdoor spaces and the unique beauty of Wisconsin. And you know those public lands and spaces are often the first entry for young people into a larger world. A world that builds lifelong relationships with nature and drives advocacy.

Today, we’re launching a short but powerful new video about this critical program and the very real threat it faces.

🎥 Watch now: “How this little known program is protecting the Ice Age Trail”

For more than 30 years, Knowles-Nelson has quietly protected the places we love – conserving land, expanding public access to trails like the Ice Age Trail, and safeguarding waters and wildlife habitat across the state. But in 2026, this landmark conservation program could disappear.

In the video, you’ll meet Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteer Steve Hall and learn about how without Knowles-Nelson, the creation, growth, and maintenance of the Ice Age Trail is at risk.

Without Knowles-Nelson, land currently in line for protection may be sold off or developed. Trails we take for granted could vanish. And future generations may never know the joy of discovering wild Wisconsin the way we do today.

This is a moment to act.

➡️ Watch the video

➡️ Comment on the video with your favorite Knowles-Nelson place

➡️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel

Protecting our public lands now is the only way to ensure our kids and grandkids have the same chances we do to camp, fish, hike, and connect with Wisconsin’s natural beauty.

Thanks for being a conservation voter,

Ryan Billingham

Communications Director

Wisconsin Conservation Voters

Wisconsin Conservation Voters
133 S. Butler Street Suite 320
Madison, WI 53703
United States

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