[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ min_height=”1027px” custom_margin=”-1px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”7px||4px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
In the summer of 2025, the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund reached a big milestone: $3 million to safeguard our state\u2019s public lands for generations to come. Learn more about the Cherish Fund\u2019s recent on-the-ground impact in our new blog post below. <\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Overlooking-the-Lower-Wisconsin-Riverway-at-Ferry-Bluff-SNA-by-Joshua-Mayer-.jpg” alt=”Overlooking the Lower Wisconsin Riverway at Ferry Bluff SNA in the fall” title_text=”Overlooking The Lower Wisconsin Riverway At Ferry Bluff SNA By Joshua Mayer” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||21px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Overlook of the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway where the management of oak savanna, oak woodland, bedrock glade and remnant prairie habitat was made possible through the Cherish Fund. Photo by Joshua Mayer<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding=”6px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Whether it\u2019s the crunch of fall leaves, a tranquil fog over a favorite lake, or amazing wildlife viewing, Wisconsinites across the state can enjoy nature\u2019s best moments at our state\u2019s public lands. But what will it take to keep those moments happening far into the future?<\/p>\n Wisconsin boasts over 1.5 million acres of publicly owned forests, prairies, streams, lakes and parks. But conservation is more than just setting aside land \u2014 it requires active stewardship of that land. Managing invasive species, restoring native ecosystems, enhancing wildlife habitat and improving public access are vital. That\u2019s where the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund comes in. <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding=”6px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In 2013, the DNR and the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin established the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund<\/a> to support the conservation and management of our state\u2019s public lands for generations to come.<\/p>\n This endowment fund provides a permanent source of funding for habitat improvement and ecological restoration across lands owned or managed by the state. These include state natural areas, parks, trails, wildlife and fisheries areas, recreation zones and forests.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Eric Lobner” job_title=”Fish, Wildlife and Parks Division Administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources” portrait_url=”data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iNTAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjUwMCIgdmlld0JveD0iMCAwIDUwMCA1MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+CiAgICA8ZyBmaWxsPSJub25lIiBmaWxsLXJ1bGU9ImV2ZW5vZGQiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGZpbGw9IiNFQkVCRUIiIGQ9Ik0wIDBoNTAwdjUwMEgweiIvPgogICAgICAgIDxyZWN0IGZpbGwtb3BhY2l0eT0iLjEiIGZpbGw9IiMwMDAiIHg9IjY4IiB5PSIzMDUiIHdpZHRoPSIzNjQiIGhlaWdodD0iNTY4IiByeD0iMTgyIi8+CiAgICAgICAgPGNpcmNsZSBmaWxsLW9wYWNpdHk9Ii4xIiBmaWxsPSIjMDAwIiBjeD0iMjQ5IiBjeT0iMTcyIiByPSIxMDAiLz4KICAgIDwvZz4KPC9zdmc+Cg==” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund presents an exceptional opportunity for all who enjoy and appreciate the outdoors to help support the stewardship of our public lands, which are a critical fabric to what makes Wisconsin great.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/DNR-crew-members-conducting-a-prescribed-burn-at-Bluff-Creek-State-Natural-Area-the-first-project-funded-by-the-Cherish-Wisconsin-Outdoors-Fund-in-2017.-Photo-by-Nate-Fayram.jpg” alt=”DNR crew members conducting a prescribed burn at Bluff Creek State Natural Area, the first project funded by the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund in 2017. ” title_text=”DNR Crew Members Conducting A Prescribed Burn At Bluff Creek State Natural Area, The First Project Funded By The Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund In 2017. Photo By Nate Fayram” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||21px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n DNR crew members conducting a prescribed burn at Bluff Creek State Natural Area, the first project funded by the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund in 2017. Photo by Nate Fayram<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The fund grows when Wisconsinites make small donations while purchasing their hunting and fishing licenses or when they give directly to the fund. Most donations are $10 or less, but it adds up quickly. Every dollar helps make sure future generations can enjoy the same natural places we do today. During the summer of 2025, the Cherish Fund reached $3 million in funds for the continued protection and management of Wisconsin\u2019s public lands!<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Field-Trip-Program-Director-Christine-Tanzer-poses-with-a-trout-she-caught-while-fly-fishing-on-vacation-in-Colorado.-Courtesy-of-Christine-Tanzer.jpg” alt=”person holding a trout” title_text=”Field Trip Program Director Christine Tanzer Poses With A Trout She Caught While Fly Fishing On Vacation In Colorado. Courtesy Of Christine Tanzer.” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||21px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Hunters and anglers, like NRF’s Field Trip Director Christine pictured here holding a freshly-caught trout, can make a donation to the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund while purchasing their licenses on the Wisconsin DNR\u2019s Go WILD online system<\/a>. Photo courtesy of Christine Tanzer<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding=”6px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund has grown, so has its positive impact on the lands we love.<\/p>\n Last year, five high-priority habitat projects came to life in Calumet, Dane, Florence, Sauk and Vilas counties. These projects are restoring habitat for rare species while enhancing recreational opportunities for all.<\/p>\n From removing invasive species to restoring prairie remnants along the Ice Age Trail, the work protects the state\u2019s species of greatest conservation need and globally significant habitat.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Forest-landscape-lightly-covered-in-snow-in-Northern-Highland\u2013American-Legion-State-Forest-one-of-the-project-locations-funded-in-2024.-Photo-by-Joshua-Mayer.jpg” alt=”Forest landscape lightly covered in snow in Northern Highland\u2013American Legion State Forest, one of the project locations funded in 2024. ” title_text=”Forest Landscape Lightly Covered In Snow In Northern Highland\u2013American Legion State Forest, One Of The Project Locations Funded In 2024. Photo By Joshua Mayer” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||21px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Forest landscape lightly covered in snow in Northern Highland\u2013American Legion State Forest, one of the project locations funded in 2024. Photo by Joshua Mayer<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Meanwhile, past projects enabled by the fund continue making a difference:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In 2023, the fund supported habitat improvements at Leola and Buena Vista Wildlife Areas, home to the state-threatened greater prairie-chicken and many other grassland birds. A DNR crew removed invasive woody vegetation and brush across 350 acres, improving habitat for rare butterflies and grassland species.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n At Lulu Lake State Natural Area just west of Milwaukee, the Savanna Enhancement Project in 2021 aided more than 200 acres of oak savanna, prairie and old field habitat. The work restored abandoned agricultural fields to prairie, increased plant diversity, controlled invasive buckthorn and improved wildlife movement between grassland and savanna ecosystems. Now, Lulu Lake has richer habitat for birds and pollinators plus improved access for hunters, anglers, birders and hikers.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Dispersing-native-prairie-plant-seeds-across-22-acres-to-the-left-of-the-gravel-road-with-Lulu-Lake-just-behind-the-tree-line-in-the-background.-Photo-courtesy-of-Cory-Peters.jpg” alt=”Dispersing native prairie plant seeds across 22 acres to the left of the gravel road, with Lulu Lake just behind the tree line in the background” title_text=”Dispersing Native Prairie Plant Seeds Across 22 Acres To The Left Of The Gravel Road, With Lulu Lake Just Behind The Tree Line In The Background. Photo Courtesy Of Cory Peters” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||21px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dispersing native prairie plant seeds across 22 acres to the left of the gravel road, with Lulu Lake just behind the tree line in the background. Photo courtesy of Cory Peters<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In 2019, restoration crews improved 278 acres at Lawrence Creek Fish and Wildlife Area in Adams County, removing invasive plants across oak savanna, barrens and sedge meadow. The area is home to the American woodcock, eastern whip-poor-will, blue-winged warbler and several types of reptiles and butterflies along with a variety of game species and a Class 1 trout stream. The work has improved hunting opportunities and enhanced the site\u2019s beauty and accessibility for outdoor recreation.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/all-1.jpg” alt=”Graphic showing map of Wisconsin with pinned locations of projects funded by the Cherish Fund from 2021 to 2024.” title_text=”Cherish projects map graphic” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||21px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Graphic showing map of Wisconsin with pinned locations of projects funded by the Cherish Fund from 2021 to 2024.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Full list of projects supported by the Cherish Fund:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”2024″ open=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”2023″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”2022″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”2021″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”2019″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=”2017″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” open=”off”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n These projects are just a glimpse into the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund\u2019s growing impact on public lands in Wisconsin.<\/p>\n Whether you fish, hunt, camp, canoe, hike, bike, birdwatch or watch your children and grandchildren experience these activities, the fund helps ensure these recreational activities can be enjoyed by everyone long into the future.<\/p>\n $3 million is an amazing milestone, but with all the challenges facing nature in Wisconsin, it is not yet enough to protect our biodiversity. The needs are great, but they are not insurmountable. When hunters and anglers make donations of any size to the Cherish Fund, they truly are making a difference.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/cherish\/” button_text=”More about the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/wisconservation.networkforgood.com\/projects\/207217-cherish-wisconsin-outdoors-fund” button_text=”Donate now” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Prairie-landscape-at-Clover-Valley-Fen-State-Natural-Area-a-restoration-site-supported-by-the-Cherish-Fund.-Photo-by-Caitlin-Williamson.jpg” alt=”Prairie landscape at Clover Valley Fen State Natural Area, a restoration site supported by the Cherish Fund. ” title_text=”Prairie Landscape At Clover Valley Fen State Natural Area, A Restoration Site Supported By The Cherish Fund. Photo By Caitlin Williamson” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||21px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Prairie landscape at Clover Valley Fen State Natural Area, a restoration site supported by the Cherish Fund. Photo by Caitlin Williamson<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”5px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#2C3425″ text_font_size=”23px” min_height=”45px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Written by Emma Schatz, Digital Communications Coordinator<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_post_slider posts_number=”3″ include_categories=”36,15″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_post_slider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund reached a big milestone: $3 million to safeguard our state\u2019s public lands for generations to come. <\/p>\n Read More<\/a>","protected":false},"author":32,"featured_media":36141,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"0px|||||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.16\" min_height=\"1027px\" custom_margin=\"-1px|auto||auto||\" custom_padding=\"7px||4px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]\n\nNRF funds projects that have a significant and positive impact on Wisconsin\u2019s lands, waters, and wildlife, and that connect people to Wisconsin\u2019s natural wonders. Through our grants for conservation, we supported hundreds of projects in 2024.\u00a0Thank you to our members, conservation partners, and other supporters for making this possible!<\/strong><\/em>\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/www.wisconservation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/aeriel-shot-of-waubesa-wetlands-by-Ben-Albert-2.jpg\" alt=\"Aeriel Shot Of Waubesa Wetlands By Ben Albert, a 2024 conservation highlight\" title_text=\"Aeriel Shot Of Waubesa Wetlands By Ben Albert (2)\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" custom_margin=\"||21px|||\" custom_padding=\"||0px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]\n Waubesa Wetlands State Natural Area is one of the highest quality and most diverse wetlands in Wisconsin. As one of NRF\u2019s priority conservation sites, we supported the restoration and management of this site in 2024. We were also proud to support the production of a documentary short film<\/a> highlighting the wonders of this hidden wetland. Photo by Ben Albert<\/em><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" custom_padding=\"6px|||||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]\nThe Cherish Fund conserves Wisconsin\u2019s public lands<\/h3>\n
What is the Cherish Fund?<\/h3>\n
Impact on the ground<\/h3>\n
Improving wildlife habitat at Leola and Buena Vista Wildlife Areas<\/h4>\n
Restoring oak savanna at Lulu Lake State Natural Area<\/h4>\n
Removing invasive species at Lawrence Creek Fish and Wildlife Area<\/h4>\n
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$3 million and counting<\/h3>\n
Connecting People, Protecting Nature: NRF\u2019s 2024 Conservation Highlights<\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]\n\nIn 2024, the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin granted $1,000,676<\/strong> to support 228<\/strong> conservation and environmental education projects to 133 unique organizations<\/strong> across the state. NRF\u2019s three primary impact areas are lands and waters conservation, wildlife conservation, and environmental education. We also support projects that build climate resiliency for Wisconsin\u2019s natural resources. Simultaneously, we support projects that help make the field of conservation and access to the outdoors more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=\"off\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" custom_padding=\"6px|||||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]\n
2024 Grants for Conservation StoryMap<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]\n\nOur 2024 Grants for Conservation StoryMap shows all the grants made throughout the year. The different colored pins represent our three impact areas. Lands and waters conservation projects are green, wildlife conservation projects are yellow, and environmental education projects are blue. Zoom in on different counties for a full view of projects supported in the area and click on pins to learn more about individual projects.\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]\n\n