DNR Releases Biennial Habitat Work Plan, Highlighting Work Across the State

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released the 2026-27 Biennial Habitat Work Plan, highlighting the DNR’s first comprehensive compilation of the agency’s proposed habitat work for fiscal years 26-27.

The work plan was developed in accordance with state statute 23.0925. DNR staff presented this work plan to the Natural Resources Board at its August meeting.

“While the department owns a relatively small proportion of total land in Wisconsin, the work we do on our lands makes a real difference. Some of our lands have the best, and in some cases the only, habitat for key fish, wildlife and plant species,” said Eric Lobner, DNR Fish, Wildlife and Parks Division Administrator. “Although DNR managed lands provide important habitat, department staff can’t do it alone and it is critically important for wildlife populations that partnerships and work on private lands is occurring as well.”

Habitat is the single most important factor for sustainable fish and wildlife populations. The DNR’s overarching habitat goal is to protect, restore and enhance habitat to support sustainable fish, wildlife and plant populations. This work plan describes a significant amount of current and planned habitat work, including prescribed burning, invasive species control, trout stream improvements, tree and prairie plantings, timber sales, conservation agriculture, wetland enhancements and many others. Proposed habitat efforts are identified on both a statewide level and within each of Wisconsin’s 16 Ecological Landscapes.

Habitat work on DNR lands is funded primarily through sales of fishing and hunting licenses, along with federal Sportfish and Wildlife Restoration grants derived from excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment. The DNR prioritizes the types and locations of habitat projects to make the biggest impact with available resources. Habitat management needs always exceed available funding, and the voluntary contributions of individuals and organizations are critical to the success of habitat efforts.

Individuals can make contributions to the DNR’s habitat mission by donating when purchasing a DNR hunting, trapping, or fishing license. These donations go to the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund, a public-private partnership between the DNR and the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin. Founded in 2012, this fund helps create permanent support for the care and management of the lands and waters loved by hikers, boaters, birders, hunters and anglers alike. In addition, those who would like to roll up their sleeves and assist with efforts on their local Fish or Wildlife Area are encouraged to visit the Volunteer Opportunities webpage.

To learn more about public lands and the DNR’s habitat work plan, visit the DNR’s Public Lands webpage.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.