The mission of the Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness is to protect, preserve and restore the wilderness character of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Quetico-Superior ecosystem.
Our Story
For more than 40 years Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness has been a leading voice for the ongoing protection, preservation and restoration of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Our organization was instrumental in the passage of the 1978 Boundary Waters Protection Act, which made the Boundary Waters what it is today. Our supporters defend the Boundary Waters against activities that erode its wilderness character and work to ensure that the BWCAW, Superior National Forest and Quetico-Superior ecosystem are managed according to sound ecological principles. Advocacy is a broad endeavor. We believe the future of the wilderness depends on people and getting the next generation of diverse people to fall in love with the wilderness.
Our Work
Friends is at the frontline in the fight against the copper-sulfide mines that have been proposed at the doorsteps of the Boundary Waters. Through mobilizing citizens and initiating legislative and legal action, we are determined to keep this toxic industry out of Minnesota.
We are committed to promoting equity in the wilderness and fostering the next generation of wilderness enthusiasts through our No Boundaries to the Boundary Waters Program.
We also manage a strong volunteer program and provide resources to ensure the communities surrounding the BWCAW thrive.
The People
Meet the staff and board members dedicated to protecting clean water and continuing the legacy of wilderness stewardship.
Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness acknowledges that the land and water we are dedicated to protecting is on the traditional homelands of the Anishinaabe people, who continue to live in the area and exercise treaty rights on this land and water. We humbly work to honor this living history and learn how the Anishinaabe relationship with this land and water continues to grow and evolve. Together, we strive to build mutual respect, trust and understanding around what it means to protect the Boundary Waters.
Stay Up To Date
Browse our blog for the latest updates on our advocacy work, as well as stories about people with deep connections to the Boundary Waters and travel tips from wilderness experts.
More kids are having a BWCA Summer
The education team works hard to make sure kids across Minnesota learn wilderness and canoe skills in “No Boundaries to…
Speak up to ban mining near the BWCA
Sign your name to let the Forest Service know that you value the Boundary Waters and support a 20-year-mineral withdrawal…
Cold Water Danger – A Lesson
In the Boundary Waters, the water’s always cold. Here’s what to know if you find yourself in frigid waters.