BWCAW visitor numbers drop to pre-COVID levels
After two years of high demand in the wilderness, Superior National Forest data shows that the number of visitors to the BWCA last year returned to similar levels as before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wilderness Protection
The top 10 clearest lakes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area
Which lakes in the BWCAW are the most crystal clear? Satellite data analyzed by the University of Minnesota yields insights. #10 – Lac la Croix…
Star Tribune series explores fighting fire with fire in the BWCA
Should fire be managed in the Boundary Waters? What have we learned from past mistakes? Experts discuss wildfire past and future in the BWCAW.
New BWCA report calls for more public engagement
A wide range of stakeholders weigh in on how the BWCAW is managed. Interviews with dozens of wilderness users and other stakeholders resulted in new recommendations.
DNR considers BWCA mining buffer zone expansion
Minnesota DNR announces its undertaking rulemaking to protect the Boundary Waters wilderness from noise and light pollution related to mining.
Report documents how “model mines” actually contaminate environment
Professor of geology studied several mines that supposedly have not polluted, and found they don’t meet proposed Minnesota standards.
Federal judge considers motorized towboat ban in Boundary Waters
Group requests injunction to prohibit activity they say illegally degrades wilderness as lawsuit over issue proceeds.
New film explores the dark skies of Minnesota-Ontario
‘Northern Nights, Starry Skies’ features inspiring images, cultural knowledge, and light pollution threats.
Boundary Waters receives ‘International Quiet Park’ designation
The BWCAW’s lack of human noise is recognized as increasingly important. This award honors the quietest places in the world.
Beyond the Boundary Waters Mining Ban: What’s Next for Minnesota Wilderness
After last month’s announcement that protects the BWCAW for 20 years, more threats and protection work remains.
Wilderness advocates ask court to enforce Boundary Waters motor limits
Wilderness Watch requests halt to commercial motor use in Boundary Waters until Forest Service comes up with management plan.
Scientists search for cyanobacteria in Boundary Waters: Part I
Intense study of several northern Minnesota lakes seeks answers about past and future of region’s famous waters.
Historic photos celebrate centennial of Superior National Forest recreation plan
Forest Service notes anniversary of first major call to protect canoe country.
What is the Boundary Waters worth? Counties and Forest Service disagree
Ongoing conflict focuses on financial value of wilderness and federal payments to compensate local governments for missed taxes.
Report on 2021 Boundary Waters wildfire explains fire management options and benefits
The Fourtown Lake Fire was allowed to burn to some extent, helping restore a healthy forest and reducing firefighting resources needed.
Forest Service reports illegal trail markings on Boundary Waters wilderness hiking path
Vandals illegally blaze protected hiking trail in Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Forest Service asks for information about painted markings on wilderness path.
More wolves, fewer moose on Isle Royale
Annual reports reveal wolf reintroduction is part of reason for steep drop in moose.
New Yorker podcast documents sounds and experiences of Boundary Waters canoe trip
“I came here with my recorder hoping to capture what so envelops me here,” says Alex Kotlowitz about the BWCA. “The mournful wails of loons at night, the lakes telling stories, the skies shouting…”
Forest Service studies motorized towboat use in Boundary Waters wilderness
Federal officials are reviewing how shuttles affect crowding and solitude, while advocates say it’s ignoring limits.
Adventurer Emily Ford faced slush, wind, ice in 200-mile Boundary Waters crossing
Ford says she’d cross a thousand miles of wilderness to help more kids experience the outdoors, and her fundraising will make sure some do.