MADISON, Wis. — On Tuesday, August 26th, Legislative Democrats introduced their bill to re-authorize the popular Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program. More than 90% of Wisconsinites support the program, which has protected over 650,000 acres of land across the state. After the introduction, Assembly Democratic Leader Greta Neubauer (D-Racine) released the following statement:
“Earlier this year, legislative Republicans stripped critical funding for the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program from the state budget—funding that would ensure public access to natural spaces and preserve them for future generations. Without re-authorization, the program will run out of funds by July 2026.
“We know that Wisconsinites in every corner of our state want to be able to enjoy the outdoors, now and in the future. That’s why I am proud to join every Democratic member of the legislature in introducing our bill to save the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program and do the right thing for our environment, tourism economy, and the people of Wisconsin.
“In the 66th Assembly District alone, more than $1.5 million has been invested in outdoor recreation projects, from Steward-McBride Park to the Pike River Trail. Access to the outdoors is important to my community, and we have to ensure this program provides great access to natural spaces for years to come.”
