Thank You
Thank you to everyone who voted in the August 13th primary. We are happy to announce that we successfully defeated both amendment measures. This is an important victory for nature and communities across the state, and we couldn't have done it without you. Onward!
The Issue
The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin is expressing our opposition to two ballot measures (hereafter referred to as Questions 1 and 2) on the state’s August 13, 2024 primary ballot that would permanently change Wisconsin’s constitution. Questions 1 and 2 would limit the governor’s ability to spend federal funds without legislative approval, a change that could slow or disrupt the distribution of funds for critical conservation projects, emergency disaster relief efforts and timely infrastructure repairs. It’s our opinion that approving the measures would harm Wisconsinites across the state.
The Impact
TNC’s work depends on support from federal grants and partnerships. In 2023 alone, TNC partners and conservation initiatives received more than $20 million from federal sources now at risk:
- $11 million in 2023 for the Pelican River Forest Project, protecting 56,911 acres of land
- $11 million for National Fish and Wildlife Foundation projects in 2023
Additionally, the amendments could jeopardize funding currently available for land and water conservation, climate action and regenerative agriculture:
- $50 million for grants to further natural resource protection on private lands
- $20 million over five years to protect against wildfires
- $58.8 million for renewable energy projects
- $48 million for cost-share programs for conservation and regenerative agriculture practices
- $27 million in grant funding for projects to build resilience in the food supply chain
Our Stance
As a science-based, community-centered and nonpartisan organization, speaking up on a statewide ballot initiative like this is somewhat rare for us. We are proud of our track record of working with leaders on both sides of the political aisle—we’ve been doing it for over 64 years—but we feel we can’t stay quiet on this issue given the potential impacts to our work and to the work of our many conservation partners across the state. There is a lot on the line on August 13th.
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Take Action
We urge Wisconsin voters to VOTE NO on Questions 1 and 2 on or before August 13th. Vote via mail-in ballot, or vote in person on August 13th. Just be sure to vote! Your voice matters, and showing your support for conservation and other critical projects will benefit your neighbors, your community and the places you love. Tell your friends, family and anyone who will listen. We need your help!
Paid for by Preserve Wisconsin’s Constitution.
Explore Our Work
Our History in Wisconsin
For more than 60 years, TNC has been working in Wisconsin to conserve and protect the land and waters of our state.
Climate Action in Wisconsin
We’re seeing the impacts of climate change right here in Wisconsin, from warmer winters to flooded streets in our cities. With your help, TNC is making strides in reducing the impacts in our state.
Great Lakes Northwoods
The Great Lakes Northwoods are a critically important landscape that filters and provides high-quality freshwater, maintains species biodiversity and naturally stores carbon.