3,600 acres scheduled for burns in Superior National Forest

The USFS–Superior National Forest began prescribed burns on 3,600 acres across the forest in mid-September. The agency will continue burning through early winter in areas identified as high wildfire risk or near communities. These efforts support a healthy ecosystem while reducing wildfire danger.

How would reversing the Roadless Rule affect the Superior National Forest?

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins recently announced plans to withdraw the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which protects 59 million acres of National Forest from new roads and timber harvests. In Minnesota, many of these areas border the BWCA. If implemented, the change could significantly affect how parts of the National Forest are managed.

New technology may fight sulfate pollution near BWCAW

Near Birch Lake Reservoir, Jeff Hanson’s mobile lab is testing a potentially proven, cost-effective method to remove sulfate from watersheds flowing into the Boundary Waters. This pollution, a byproduct of taconite mining, harms humans and contributes to toxic mercury levels in fish.

Aircraft surveys aim to map critical minerals across northern Minnesota

Small aircraft equipped with advanced mapping technology are flying over northern Minnesota to survey geology and update maps of critical minerals. Led by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Minnesota Geological Survey, the project aims to improve understanding of resources vital for clean energy and national security. Whether the findings will encourage new mining in the region remains unclear.

Should walleye limits be reduced on Minnesota lakes?

The Minnesota DNR is looking for public comment on the possibility of reducing walleye limits in the state. They attribute this to changes in environmental and ecological conditions, combined with advancements in fishing methods. If the bag limit changes, the walleye possession would decrease from six to four fish.

BWCAW visitor use has gone up due to increased interest in day-trips

While the overall number of visitors has remained steady since the pandemic, the number of visitors increased between May 1 and September 30 last year. This was largely due to a rise in day-use (non-motorized) permit reservations. Off-season visits also grew, though summer continues to draw the most traffic.

Exploring the Primitive Management Areas of the BWCAW

For those who truly want to get off the beaten path, the BWCAW’s twelve Primitive Management Areas (PMAs) offer the most remote and untouched wilderness experience. Exploring these areas involves risk and demands strong outdoor skills with proper planning. Help may be hours or even days away, and local resources are limited.

Legislation fast-tracks mining leases near BWCAW

June 11 Update: In a win for wilderness and conservation efforts, Congress is set to remove Section 80131 from the draft budget bill. This section would have directed officials to move forward with reinstating copper-nickel mining leases near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Bob DeGross retires as Voyageurs National Park Superintendent

After more than three decades of service, Superintendent Bob DeGross retired from Voyageurs National Park. He joined Minnesota’s only national park in 2016, inspired by early conservationists Sigurd Olson and Aldo Leopold. As he steps into retirement, he reflects on the challenges facing the National Park Service and emphasizes the vital role the park plays for both visitors and surrounding communities.

Closure order issued near the Horse River in the BWCAW

A lightning strike sparked a wildfire near the Horse River in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This comes after an active wildfire season has scorched nearly 30,000 acres in the Superior National Forest this year. The Forest Service has issued a closure order for the route along the Dog Sled Portage and has encouraged visitors to avoid the area.

Wildfires burn in the southern part of the Superior National Forest

Crews are battling three wildfires in St. Louis County, Minnesota. The fires, which are burning in a mixed forest, are partially contained. Ground and air support, along with suppression efforts, will continue in the Superior National Forest until further notice. We will continue to share updates.