Photo: Warren P. Knowles

Photographer: K. Linzmeier
Taken: June 12, 2011
Caption: Warren P. Knowles
Additional Description: (1908 - 1993)
Warren Knowles, for whom the state forest is named, was above all an outdoorsman. Even as Governor of Wisconsin he never missed an opportunity to get out and enjoy Wisconsin’s magnificent natural resources. He coupled this love for the outdoors with an unwavering commitment to conservation.

Knowles was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate in 1940, serving continuously until 1955 when he was elected Lieutenant Governor. Knowles promoted a conservation agenda in both of these positions. He was a major force behind the original Outdoor Recreation Act Program (ORAP) in 1961, which generated funds for land acquisition.

In 1964 Knowles was elected to his first of three terms as Wisconsin Governor. While Governor, Knowles initiated efforts to reduce water pollution and expanded ORAP funding to increase the acquisition of land for conservation purposes. He also founded the Governor’s Fishing Opener in 1968, to focus attention on all that Wisconsin offers for anglers. He participated in this event both as Governor and for many years after he left public service. In fact, Governor Knowles died during a break from fishing on opening day in 1993. It is in tribute to Governor Knowles and his conservation accomplishments that this forest is named in his honor.
Submitted: July 12, 2011, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.
Database Locator Identification Number: p161877
File Size: 1.941 Megabytes

To see the metadata that may be embedded in this photo, sign in and then return to this page.