Since 1976, Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness has been the voice for clean water and wilderness
Our vision for the future of this national treasure lies at the intersection of people, communities and wilderness.
Protect the Boundary Waters from Sulfide Mining
Foreign mining companies are seeking to open toxic sulfide-ore mines on the edge of the Boundary Waters. If put into operation, the acid runoff from these mines would cause irreparable harm and damage to the waters of our beloved wilderness.
IntroducE young people to the wilderness
In our hyper-connected, digital world, wilderness is more important than ever, especially for young people. There should be no Boundaries to the Boundary Waters. Through a number of programs, we introduce kids from diverse backgrounds to the splendors fo the wilderness and build the next generation of wilderness stewards.
Keep it wild
The story of the Boundary Waters is the story of people coming together to protect and restore this unique wilderness. With over 200,000 visitors a year, the Boundary Waters is the most visited Wilderness Area in the country. To stay wild and accessible, the wilderness needs your help.
Photo courtesy of Blake Edwards
SUPPORT THRIVING Gateway communities
A vibrant, sustainable wilderness economy has developed in the communities around the Boundary Waters. Protecting the BWCAW also means protecting a stable and viable livelihood for the people who call this area home.
Photo courtesy of Bobby Marko
EXPLORE OUR BLOG
Small children and water seem like two things that shouldn’t be combined. However, with a little preparation and some patients, some of the best family adventures out there take place with young children in a canoe, on the water, in the Boundary Waters.