Enthusiasts of northern Minnesota will be happy to discover two new podcasts from the Quetico Superior region. The Forest North and Paddle and Portage podcasts feature stories from the millions of acres spanning Superior National Forest, the Boundary Waters and Quetico Provincial Park. Listen for in-depth reporting on topics ranging from advanced canoe tripping tips to forest management practices, with interviews from local experts.
Stories from the forest
The USDA Forest Service – Superior National Forest has partnered with Ely Area Tourism to create a new podcast called Forest North. Covering news and stories of the nearly 4 million acre forest, the podcast has started to feature bi-monthly episodes.
In the latest episode Maggie Whiting from the Kawishiwi Ranger District talks about registering permits for the first time, and this year’s “Go-Live” day for Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness permits. Interpretation and Education Specialist Steve Robertson talks about this year’s lack of snow and how it impacts wildlife in the north woods.
In a recent episode, host Brett Ross talks to Superior National Forest Supervisor, Tom Hall. During the conversation, Tom discusses the behind-the-scenes management of the national forest. Steve Robertson reveals unique winter adaptations of animals in northern Minnesota, like tree frog “frog-sicles” and tips for tracking and observing wildlife in the snowy months.
Stories from the people
Listeners may recognize Joe Friedrichs and Matthew Baxley as the producers and voices behind the newly formed Paddle and Portage Podcast. Both are former podcast hosts of the WTIP radio station in Grand Marais. With a focus on canoeing, they hope to bring relevant stories related to the BWCAW and Quetico Provincial Park.
A recent episode covers the impacts of wind in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. A late-season trip involving a father and son prompts a question about wind direction. Guest meteorologist, Ketzel Levens with the Duluth National Weather Service explains that because of “The local terrain and geomorphology of a lot of the Boundary Waters, we have these east-to-west oriented lakes and lengthy areas of fetch.” As a result, she notes, when the wind comes across the surface, it’s likely to follow the long axis.
Paddle and Portage’s podcast can be directly accessed through their website. Subscribers will have access to additional interviews with folks from the USDA Forest Service – Superior National Forest and MN DNR. There will also be a section of audio diaries from guest contributors.
Given the expanse of forests and water, there is still much to be discovered. Both podcasts aim to provide distinct and valuable insights for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of these northern areas. With many of us looking to cultivate a connection with nature, these podcasts will enhance our knowledge and experience of the Quetico Superior area.
More information:
- Paddle and Portage: A Voice for the Boundary Waters – Paddle and Portage
- Introducing Forest North – Visit Ely MN
- USDA Forest Service – Superior National Forest
Wilderness guide and outdoorswoman Pam Wright has been exploring wild places since her youth. Remaining curious, she has navigated remote lakes in Canada by canoe, backpacked some of the highest mountains in the Sierra Nevada, and completed a thru-hike of the Superior Hiking Trail. Her professional roles include working as a wilderness guide in northern Minnesota and providing online education for outdoor enthusiasts.