Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program Grants For Friends Group

The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program Grants to Friends Groups is a state-administered funding initiative designed to support nonprofit conservation organizations and affiliated friends groups in enhancing outdoor recreational experiences and restoring natural habitats on Wisconsin state properties. The program is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which sets aside $500,000 annually for eligible groups under this grant stream. These funds are allocated to projects that contribute to the development, restoration, and improvement of state-managed lands, including parks, forests, and other designated recreational areas. The grant offers up to $20,000 per state property each year, with a cap of $60,000 per project spread across three phases. To be eligible, each phase of a multi-year project must have a usable component upon completion. The program requires a 50% match from the project sponsor, with up to half of that match allowed as in-kind contributions like materials, labor, and equipment use. This cost-sharing mechanism ensures both public investment and community engagement in state property improvements. The funding may be used for a wide range of nature-based recreation infrastructure such as trails, signage, access roads, restrooms, and adaptive equipment. Notably, the grant allows for the inclusion of adaptive recreational devices like off-road wheelchairs and adaptive kayaks, provided they are approved by property managers and align with broader accessibility goals. Only nonprofit organizations designated under sections 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) and exempt under section 501(a) of the IRS code may apply. Friends groups must be incorporated and in good standing with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and must maintain a written agreement with DNR. Eligible nonprofit conservation organizations must focus on conservation property acquisition and similarly qualify under the 501(c)(3) designation. Projects must be aligned with DNR-approved property plans, be dedicated to nature-based outdoor recreation, and involve permanent improvements with a minimum 20-year lifespan unless they are habitat restoration efforts consistent with approved management plans. Applications are due annually on November 15. Planning should begin well in advance by consulting with the DNR Property Manager. Application components include a development project form, cost worksheet, authorizing resolution, site plans, and location maps. Applicants are advised to submit materials for internal review by October 15 to allow time for feedback. Once submitted, eligible projects are scored and ranked using a new application rating system that prioritizes alignment with program goals. Grants are awarded to the highest-ranking projects until funds are exhausted, with Friends Groups receiving preference over other nonprofit conservation organizations. The project period is typically up to two years, with only planning, contracting, and engineering expenses allowed before the signed grant contract. Reimbursement is not available for administrative overhead or certain non-permanent items. All application materials must be sent to the designated Friends Grant Program Manager, currently Cindi Semmann, either via email or traditional mail. Projects must submit a final inspection form and photographic evidence upon completion. Per administrative code NR 51.955, final paperwork must be submitted within 90 days of completion. The program operates on an annual cycle and will continue to accept applications each year, with the next due date expected on November 15, 2026. This recurring timeline allows organizations to prepare multi-year development plans with consistent funding expectations. The Wisconsin DNR continues to support Friends Groups and nonprofit conservation organizations in fulfilling the stewardship mission of preserving and enhancing the state's public outdoor spaces.

Plan early and submit to the Property Manager by October 15 for internal review; ensure all in-kind contributions are documented properly.