Wisconsinites who appreciate the natural corridors threading through the Dairy State have a direct way to contribute to the preservation of its wildlife and scenic beauty when they file their taxes this season. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is calling on those who harbor concern for the state's endangered species to make a donation to the Endangered Resources Fund via their income tax form. Drew Feldkirchner, the director of the DNR's Bureau of Natural Heritage Conservation, emphasized the impact of these contributions, stating, "Every donation, no matter how small, helps us to quickly do the work needed to keep rare wildlife in Wisconsin."
More than 400 wildlife species and 300 plant species in Wisconsin are currently listed as endangered, threatened, or in decline. Among those who have benefited from the public's generosity are the eastern prairie fringed orchid, the iconic bald eagle, the rusty patched bumble bee, and the little brown bat. Donations are critical to activities like monitoring and protecting the bald eagle nests and running vaccine trials to combat white-nose syndrome that threatens the little brown bat populations. "It supports our team's on-the-ground conservation efforts and helps us collaborate with volunteers and partners to prevent species loss across our state," Feldkirchner told the DNR newsroom.
Aside from direct effects on specific species, contributions also play a role in controlling invasive species and helping to sustain hundreds of state natural areas. These areas stand as sanctuaries, shielding 75% of Wisconsin's endangered and threatened wildlife species and 90% of the endangered and threatened plant species.
The process to donate is clear-cut. Those interested should look for the "Donations" line on the Wisconsin income tax form and select "endangered resources" in Schedule 3, Part 1a for resident and part-year/nonresident forms. Donations are not only tax-deductible but are also matched dollar for dollar. For those who have already filed their taxes, there's still a chance to contribute. After filing, donations can still be made directly to the fund and will receive a 1:1 match. Giving becomes a conservation partnership, wherein every dollar you contribute stands to be doubled, effectively expanding its potential to make a difference.
