In the past year, your support has allowed us to do critical work that is essential to the future of the Boundary Waters. These 5 wins, along with countless personal moments we’ve all shared in the wilderness — the flash of the auroras, the call of a loon, jokes around the campfire — inspire us for the challenges that lie ahead.

It’s a critical time for the Boundary Waters, and we hope you’ll stay in touch with us as we move forward speaking up loudly for this quiet place!

1. Land Conservation

This year, we completed the purchase of 361 acres of pristine wilderness along the South Kawishiwi River, bringing the total amount of land we have acquired near the edge of the Boundary Waters to nearly 500 acres, and protecting it from development.

2. Polymet Suspended

After years of legal battles and passionate advocacy from supporters like you, PolyMet-NewRange acknowledged the need to revise their mine plan. The DNR then suspended the review process, creating a further roadblock to this flawed project.

3. Protected Habitat

The U.S. Forest Service is updating its management plan. Through submitting comments, Friends plans to partner closely with the agency to ensure it addresses critical concerns like climate change, that affects the Boundary Waters.

4. Legislative Breakthroughs

Despite resistance from leadership and established interests, Friends gathered international witnesses and national experts to conduct a crucial hearing into strengthening clean water protections. We also passed a resolution that made addressing copper-sulfide mining part of the official platform of Minnesota’s Democratic Party.

5. More Educational Opportunities

This summer, we sent 128 students on life-changing trips into the wilderness. We also expanded our educational program to bring students from communities and tribal nations surrounding the BWCA into the wilderness, strengthening the connection these communities have with this natural treasure.