The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund was created in 1989 to preserve important natural communities, protect water quality and fisheries, and expand opportunities for outdoor recreation and has several subprograms.

A group of member outdoor businesses make up the Conservation Alliance which provides grant funding for projects that protect threate​ned wild places across North America that also have a clear recreational benefit.

This program offers a unique opportunity for communities to acquire and conserve forests that provide public access and recreational opportunities, protect vital water supplies and wildlife habitat, serve as demonstration sites for private forest landowners, and provide economic benefits from timber and non-timber products.