By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has published the results of the 2025 Spring Hearing, showing active public participation with over 9,000 responses collected both in person and online.
This annual hearing allows residents to provide input on proposed rule changes and advisory questions related to the state’s natural resources.
This year’s questionnaire covered a wide range of topics. Questions addressed fishing bag limit adjustments on various water bodies, plans to build accessible cabins at state-managed properties, and proposals to extend the fall turkey hunting season in specific zones. The complete list of questions and their detailed results is available on the DNR website.
“We had very good participation again for this year’s spring hearings. I’m happy with the input and public discussions we had in person and online,” said Rob Bohmann, Chair of the Wisconsin Conservation Congress. “It tells me the public is still interested and engaged in resource management in Wisconsin, and it is important to them.”
The Spring Hearing is an important annual event that gives the public a chance to influence natural resource policies directly.
Besides rule changes proposed by the DNR, attendees can weigh in on advisory questions presented by the Conservation Congress and vote on resolutions submitted by fellow citizens.
All public feedback collected during the hearing serves as advisory input for the Natural Resources Board, DNR staff, and others involved in managing Wisconsin’s natural resources.
The results were reviewed by the Conservation Congress at their annual convention earlier this month. The feedback will be formally submitted to the DNR and the Natural Resources Board for consideration in June.
This open process helps ensure that resource management decisions reflect the priorities and concerns of Wisconsin residents, promoting sustainable use of the state’s rich natural assets.
Photo Credit: freepik-upklyak
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