Snow and weather ideal for Gunflint Mail Run sled dog race
A snowy wilderness echoed with the barking of sled dogs poised for a heated competition. Recent snows and warmer than usual temperatures made good conditions for mushers and race watchers.
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Teenagers invited to enter wilderness essay contest for a chance to win a “no parents” Boundary Waters trip
An essay contest for high school students seeks to encourage outdoor experiences and promote paddling to a new generation.
Winter Patrol in the Boundary Waters
How is the BWCAW patrolled in the winter? When snow covers Boundary Waters lakes and portages, wilderness rangers turn to sled dogs, snowshoes, and cross-country skis to complete their work…
Federal government announces plan to renew Twin Metals mineral leases
Public input is now being accepted on a document that describes new leases and conditions to restrict mining impacts.
State issues final permits to PolyMet for copper-nickel mine in northern Minnesota
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency approves air and water plans, while environmentalists say the decisions are based on bad information.
Young Boundary Waters advocates go to Washington, D.C. to speak for the wilderness
Young advocates spend two days in the nation’s capital, sharing their stories and asking officials to protect the Boundary Waters.
Voyageurs National Park researchers record first-ever footage of wolves catching freshwater fish
Scientists tracking and studying wolves in the park on MInnesota’s northern border have documented the animals fishing, and it could be an important food source.
Historical documents related to Twin Metals mineral leases support Obama decision to reject renewal
Newly-found records show government fought against long-term leases and put caveats on the terms to ensure expedient mineral development.
Cook County celebrates its lack of light pollution at first-ever Dark Sky Festival
Events in Grand Marais will encourage attendees to enjoy and protect the starry skies that have made the region famous.
Somali youth explore winter in the BWCAW
A collaboration between Wilderness Inquiry and youth advocacy group Ka Joog takes kids into the Boundary Waters to share new experiences…
Environmental groups sue to stop PolyMet, strengthen Minnesota mining regulations
Eight organizations file lawsuits to challenge permits for the state’s first copper mine and revise rules.
Jack pine in Voyageurs National Park is crowned national champion
A massive example of the iconic Quetico-Superior tree species growing on the edge of Namakan Lake has been declared the biggest of its kind in the country.
The Banadad Ski Trail – from historic logging road to winter wilderness experience
Snow underfoot, dark pines above, a white path beckons cross-country skiers into the Boundary Waters and offers glimpses into its past.
Algae with potential to harm trout habitat found in North Shore river
Bloom of unusual aquatic plant that can cover cold, clean river bottoms with slimy growth and hurt aquatic food web is discovered in Poplar River.
University researchers working in the Boundary Waters face an uncertain future
The Hubachek Wilderness Research Center sits on the edge of northern Minnesota’s vast wilderness, a launching point into the Boundary Waters. The region has become a focus of controversy. The facilities, which date back to the 1930s, moved to the Fall Lake location…
Members of Congress request details on reopening Boundary Waters watershed to mining
Two key Democrats have sent a letter to administration officials seeking evidence to back up the September decision.
Former Forest Service leader calls for continued protection of Boundary Waters
Retired leader of agency who took steps to prevent mining pollution from harming the wilderness says continued protection is important.
Wilderness Voices: John Ratzloff
Photographer reveals the role of people in wilderness, from cliff-rimmed lakes in Quetico to ancient trees in the Boundary Waters…
State of Minnesota issues permits for PolyMet mine proposal
DNR announces it is giving the copper-nickel mine proposal a green light after years of review and debate.
Native American burial ground on Rainy River to remain closed to public
Minnesota Historical Society decides to keep Grand Mound Historic Site closed out of respect for Native American communities.