Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program Grants to Friends Groups
Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program Grants to Friends Groups support friends groups and conservation nonprofits in improving Wisconsin state properties for outdoor recreation, access, and habitat restoration.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: October 15, 2026 (Preferred property manager review) | November 15, 2026 (Final application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000 per property per year; up to $60,000 for a three-phase project
Summary: Grants support nature-based recreation improvements and habitat restoration on Wisconsin state properties.
Key Information: Grants cover up to 50% of project costs; sponsors provide the other 50%.
Description
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) administers these Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program grants for friends groups and nonprofit conservation organizations improving state properties. Projects may develop recreation facilities, create new activities, increase access to existing activities, restore habitat, or address needs identified in a property plan. Eligible work includes lasting capital improvements and select durable adaptive equipment.
The program prioritizes projects that directly provide nature-based outdoor recreation or make new activities accessible. It also considers projects addressing public health, safety, security, or environmental concerns, and those expanding environmental education, interpretation, or outdoor skills opportunities.
