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.

Camping Finland State Forest

The perfect Finland State Forest camping trip — hiking adventures and Baptism River relaxation

Sometimes the best adventures aren’t planned at all. A spontaneous trip to the Finland State Forest proves that trading schedules for spontaneity can lead to the most memorable escapes. With hundreds of first-come, first-served campsites scattered across northeast Minnesota, it’s easy to find a quiet place along the Baptism River or a trailhead on the Superior Hiking Trail. Rainy mornings with coffee, afternoons full of berries and birdsong, and evenings by the fire show why the Northwoods is perfect for a last-minute reset.

No permit required: Superior National Forest’s 13 hidden canoe routes

The BWCAW isn’t the only place for unforgettable canoe-camping adventures. We’ve selected thirteen routes in the Superior National Forest, outside the designated wilderness. These routes offer excellent paddling without the need for a permit. We include maps and key details to help you plan your trip.

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.