Fish, Wildlife and Parks Public Input Opportunities
The Fish, Wildlife and Parks division welcomes public input on our vital state resources and programs.
The Wisconsin DNR creates and revises program guidance to consistently implement state laws and rules within our diverse natural resources programs.
DNR Program Guidance is formal written communication to DNR staff and the public that explains how the department's programs will make decisions and carry out program activities when specific details are not included in the law. The department uses different formats to document guidance, including management plans, operational handbooks, manual codes, instructional pamphlets, and written directives from managers to staff. Guidance can include recommended actions or permit conditions under certain criteria, and may also clarify how the department's legal authority is implemented.
In addition to the program guidance listed below, other guidance documents already in effect can be found in various locations on our website. To locate these additional guidance listings, please use the website search tool located in the upper right-hand corner above the navigation menu. You can search by the topic that interests you or use our navigation menu to browse our website.
Stay connected - Sign up for GovDelivery
Share Your Thoughts On Guidance
Your ideas are important to us! Help guide and shape the future direction of Wisconsin's natural resources management and conservation programs. We welcome your input on any of the guidance documents in the table below during the open public comment period. After reviewing the document, simply click the "Submit Comments" link in the column for that document to provide your thoughts. We give all public comments equal consideration when finalizing documents.
Note: Guidance opportunities will be listed in the table below as they become available.
| Guidance Title | Guidance Link | Guidance Description | Comment Deadline | Submit Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Rare Herp Activity Calendar | Proposed Guidance | 2026 Rare Herp Activity Calendar | Nov. 18, 2026 | maureen.millmann@wisconsin.gov |
| Wisconsin Bird Avoidance Dates (Nesting Period) and Breeding Activity Dates (Voluntary Conservation Period) for Species Tracked by the Natural Heritage Inventory | Proposed Guidance | The table "Wisconsin Bird Nesting Dates (Avoidance Period) for Species Tracked by the Natural Heritage Inventory" provides guidance to DNR staff and external certified reviewers who use the NHI Portal for Endangered Resources reviews. This guidance was developed by a team of Natural Heritage Conservation program staff from DNR using the best available information for species on the Natural Heritage Working List. Avoidance of these nesting dates is required for endangered and threatened species and recommended (voluntary) for special concern species. | Nov. 18, 2026 | maureen.millmann@wisconsin.gov |