Madison, Wisconsin – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Wisconsin Conservation Congress (WCC) are inviting the public to participate in the annual Fish and Wildlife Spring Hearings to discuss and provide input on natural resources management across the state.
The in-person hearings are scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026, starting at 6 p.m. in locations throughout each county. Additionally, an online public input opportunity will be available from 6 p.m. on April 13 through 6 p.m. on April 15, accessible via the DNR’s dedicated Spring Hearing webpage.
These gatherings offer residents a chance to engage directly with DNR staff and WCC delegates on local issues of importance. Attendees can ask questions, share concerns, and contribute to dialogues about areas of interest related to wildlife, fisheries, and broader conservation efforts. The events underscore the collaborative approach to managing Wisconsin’s outdoor resources effectively.
In addition to discussions, the WCC will conduct delegate elections at each county meeting. Two of the five WCC seats in every county will be up for election, allowing citizens to select representatives who will advise the Natural Resources Board and the DNR on key policies.
Public feedback forms a core component of the Spring Hearings process. Participants can submit input using QR codes available at in-person locations or through the online platform during the specified window. Paper forms will also be provided for those preferring traditional methods at the meetings.
The Wisconsin Conservation Congress holds a unique position as the state’s only statutory body where the public elects delegates to guide natural resources management for current and future generations. Operating independently yet in partnership with the DNR, the WCC promotes open and impartial actions to gather broad citizen perspectives on policy, research, education, and conservation initiatives. This structure ensures diverse voices influence decisions on hunting, fishing, habitat preservation, and other resource issues.
Event details for the 2026 Spring Hearings include: in-person meetings titled ‘Wisconsin Conservation Congress & DNR Fish And Wildlife Spring Hearings,’ held from 6 to 9 p.m. on April 13 in county-specific venues. Locations can be found on the Spring Hearing Locations List provided by the DNR. The virtual input session offers flexibility for those unable to attend physically.
This annual tradition fosters community involvement in sustaining Wisconsin’s rich outdoor heritage. By providing structured opportunities for input, the DNR and WCC aim to address local priorities such as species management, access to recreational areas, and sustainable practices. Past hearings have influenced changes like expanded trout harvest opportunities, demonstrating the impact of public participation.
Individuals interested in getting involved can explore more about the WCC and its role through the DNR’s Wisconsin Conservation Congress webpage. These hearings represent a vital forum for outdoor enthusiasts, landowners, and conservation advocates to shape the future of Wisconsin’s natural landscapes and waterways.
For more information, visit Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.