Land

Access to nature is a fundamental right. For many people, natural spaces are places to rest, heal, and connect to something larger than themselves. For plants and wildlife, these lands are essential for survival and biodiversity. Protecting land means respecting the species that came before us and safeguarding the ecosystems that sustain life.

For Native people, land is an origin story, a source of medicine, and a teacher. The land we live on was taken from Tribal nations through colonization. That history calls on us to partner with Tribal nations and organizations and to respect Tribal sovereignty and knowledge.

Public lands, like local parks and nearby open spaces, play a critical role in providing access to nature for people who may not otherwise have it. Visiting a park, trail, or forest allows individuals to experience the outdoors close to home and build a personal connection with it. By fostering personal relationships with natural spaces, they lay the foundation for long-term care, stewardship, and protection.

Every Wisconsinite deserves access to nature – whether that’s an urban park, a forested trail, or land on a Tribal reservation. Our health and the state’s economic well-being depend on protecting and expanding access to these places.

At Wisconsin Conservation Voters, we are passionate about protecting the natural wonders that make our state so remarkable. Our team works with partner organizations to promote responsible stewardship of the environment and safeguard Wisconsin’s natural heritage. From the Ice Age Trail to local fishing spots to the sun-drenched rocks of Devil’s Lake, we protect the places you love and expand access to them – for everyone.

A top priority is the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, which for more than 30 years has conserved land, expanded public access to trails, and protected waters and wildlife habitat. In 2026, this landmark program could disappear. Without it, land slated for protection may be sold or developed, and trails we take for granted could vanish. Protecting public lands now is the only way to ensure our kids and grandkids have the same opportunities to camp, fish, hike, and connect with Wisconsin’s natural beauty.

Together, we can make a difference. We work to shape policy and ensure that Wisconsin remains an ecological haven – for people, wildlife, and future generations.

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Sign up for our email list to make sure you’re the first to see actions to take and ways to protect our land, air, and water. 
• View the Vote Tracker to stay up-to-date on the bills and votes in the state legislature that impact the issues you care most about. See how your legislators voted and get descriptions on the bills we’re tracking.
• Become a member and join like-minded individuals to advocate for the Wisconsin we love.
• Support the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, which has conserved land and expanded public access to wilderness for over 30 years.