WI AB181

Expands eligibility for county forest administration grants by redefining "county forest administrator" to include individuals with alternative qualifications beyond a professional forester degree

Qualifying credentials now include: a bachelor's or higher degree in forestry from an SAF-accredited program; a bachelor's degree in natural resources, conservation, or wildlife with 3+ years of county forest management experience; or an associate degree in forestry with 3+ years of county forest management experience

Grants continue to fund up to 50% of salary and up to 50% of fringe benefits (capped at 40% of salary) for county forest administrators

Excludes Department of Natural Resources employees from the definition of eligible county forest administrator

Takes effect retroactively to January 1, 2025