September 26th is National Public Lands Day. It is a day to get outside, lend a hand, and appreciate the places we share. But Wisconsin’s public lands need our care on September 27, too—and every day after that.
Across more than 118 state parks, trails, forests, and recreation areas, Wisconsinites make memories that stay with them: a child’s first hike, a quiet morning beside the water, a bike ride with friends, or a return to a favorite campsite. These places give us room to explore, connect, and feel at home.
This year, National Public Lands Day feels different. Funding for the state park system remains inadequate, and the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program has not been renewed. A program that helped protect land and improve outdoor access across Wisconsin has lost its authorization for new funding. It is hard to look at that uncertainty and feel hopeful every day.
Yet when we look across Wisconsin, we see reason to keep going. We see you.
More than 65 Friends groups give their time and energy to our state parks, trails, forests, and recreation areas. Friends volunteers care for trails, support projects, and bring people together for events and programs that spark curiosity about Wisconsin’s natural and cultural resources. They help someone feel welcome on a first visit and give longtime visitors a new reason to return.
To every volunteer who has picked up a tool, staffed a table, planned a program, welcomed a guest, or helped a project move forward: thank you. Your work is visible in the places people enjoy, even when they do not know your name.
And to everyone who has attended a Friends event, read an email, shared a Facebook post, or spoken up for public lands: thank you, too. Those actions carry our message farther. They remind other people that these places matter and that a community stands ready to care for them.
Gratitude alone cannot meet the needs of Wisconsin’s public lands. We must keep working for reliable, sustainable funding for the state park system and for the renewal of Knowles-Nelson. We must also give Friends groups the recognition and support their work deserves.
National Public Lands Day gives us a moment to celebrate. Let’s use it to thank the people who show up—and to commit to showing up alongside them, all year long.
To Wisconsin’s Friends and everyone who cares for these places: we see your work, we value it, and we are grateful to be in this with you.
Consider donating to the Be a Steward Champion for Wisconsin’s Wild Place This Month: Campaign Link
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