Lands and Waters
Protecting Wisconsin’s most ecologically important landscapes
Wisconsin’s public lands protect many ecologically significant and rare landscapes. State Forests provide habitat for large wildlife such as elk, wolves, and bears, while State Natural Areas protect the last remaining examples of globally-imperiled ecological communities, such as savannas, wetlands, and barrens.
Wisconsin’s public lands and waters are also part of our state’s natural heritage, and provide unparalleled opportunities for people to connect with nature. Whether you love hiking, paddling, fishing, hunting, birding, camping, biking, or simply find comfort in the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors, Wisconsin’s public lands and waters are here for all of us to enjoy.
Our public lands are under threat
Invasive species, climate change, and significant cuts to state funding for natural resource management threaten to permanently alter our landscapes and diminish habitat for rare and threatened wildlife species. The Natural Resources Foundation works to address Wisconsin’s most important conservation needs, by bridging support from thousands of people across Wisconsin to our conservation partners and projects across our state.
Acres restored
grants for lands and waters
in funding for lands and waters
Our strategy for conserving lands and waters
Partnerships
Big Picture
Public Trust
Sustainability
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Impact in Action
2023 Photo Contest Winners
Every year you send us your best photos that capture incredible moments in nature. Take a look at our 10th annual Photo Contest winners!
Read MoreExplore, Love, Protect: NRF’s 2023 Grants for Conservation and Environmental Education
In 2023, NRF invested over $940,000 in grants for conservation and environmental education projects across the state.
Read MoreAn Invitation to Wonder: Waubesa Wetlands
An Invitation to Wonder: Waubesa Wetlands is a new film in production that tells the story of a hidden wetland left undeveloped by humans, a scientist dedicated to preserving it, and his grandson: a 20-year-old documentary filmmaker.
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