We work cooperatively with many partners to care for and manage the Ice Age Trail. Individuals, businesses, service clubs, other nonprofit organizations, and all levels of government play a role in helping fulfill our mission.
We also have a formal partnership with two primary government partners, the National Park Service and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, to manage all aspects of the Ice Age Trail. This partnership is codified in a Memorandum of Understanding [PDF].
The National Park Service (NPS) is the caretaker of America’s national parks, a network of some 400 natural, cultural and recreational sites across the United States. The Ice Age Trail became officially affiliated with NPS in 1980 when Congress and the President designated the Ice Age Trail a National Scenic Trail, one of only 11 nationwide. Among other functions, NPS leads the process to plan a corridor for completing the Ice Age Trail.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) preserves, protects, manages, and maintains Wisconsin’s natural resources. The Ice Age Trail became a DNR project in 1987 when the State Legislature and Governor designated it Wisconsin’s only State Scenic Trail. Among other functions, DNR plays a key role in the permanent protection of the Ice Age Trail.