Story perspectives

Wisconsin Senate Rejects Key Conservation Funding, Risks Program Expiration

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Wisconsin Senate did not advance bills to reauthorize the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, risking June expiration and limiting land purchases.
Republicans cite a Supreme Court ruling as a reason; Governor Evers proposed a $1 billion reauthorization that was rejected.
Since 1989, the program has protected about 750,000 acres, and supporters warn that funding loss will slow conservation.
A statewide poll shows 93% of voters support public funding for land conservation.

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Story summary

The Wisconsin Senate did not advance bills to reauthorize the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, risking June expiration and limiting land purchases.
Republicans cite a Supreme Court ruling as a reason; Governor Evers proposed a $1 billion reauthorization that was rejected.
Since 1989, the program has protected about 750,000 acres, and supporters warn that funding loss will slow conservation.
A statewide poll shows 93% of voters support public funding for land conservation.