The number of natural areas in the state increased by over 100 from 1990 to 2000. Wisconsin's endangered species are being enhanced. In the last 5 years, eagles and timber wolves have been upgraded under Wisconsin's Endangered Species Act. Elk have been restored in northern Wisconsin and preparations are being made to introduce whooping cranes into the state. Wisconsin leads the country in recycling, dam removal, floodplain management, wetland protection, water regulation, and trout stream management.
Most species offish and wildlife are healthy and abundant, in some cases too abundant.
In its Centennial Year, our outstanding parks and trails system is highly valued by Wisconsin's citizens and it is growing. Because of time limitations I cannot mention all of the other major natural resource improvements mentioned in this report. Let me close simply by saying thank you to all of you on behalf of the citizens of the State of Wisconsin.