Funding for open space

Since 1950, Wisconsin has lost approximately one-third of its farmland and retains less than one percent of its original grasslands. Unfortunately, as states face tight budgets in 2009, history has shown that open space funding is often one of the first programs on the chopping block. To stem this tide, research from our national federation, Environment America, showcased the work of 15 states to secure reliable funding for open space preservation programs.

The report, “Preserving America’s Natural Heritage,” recommends several measures to solve the problem of permanently funding land conservation programs—including multi-year bonds to create long-term stability and tax incentives for conservation easements. Wisconsin’s Knowles-Nelson Stewardship program was featured in the report as an example of a successful conservation funding program.