Boundary Waters Blogger

BWCAW Quota Entry Permits are Available Starting Today at 9AM

2012-01-25T09:59:00.000-06:00

As of this morning, all BWCA Quota entry permits are available on a first-come first-served basis. Call us at 218-343-7951 to reserve your permit! For best permit availability, plan your 2012 trip now.

Photographer Layne Kennedy shared the above artistically-altered photo. He took the original photograph on a Boundary Waters Guide Service canoe trip to Lac La Croix in the BWCA.

How Long is the Little Gabbro Lake (BWCAW Entry Point 33) Portage?

2012-01-19T14:24:00.001-06:00

View Larger Map

Depending on who manufactured the maps you're looking at, you may find the Little Gabbro Lake portage listed as 104 rods, 200 rods, or 290 rods. It's the only BWCAW portage I'm aware of that has such wildly different lengths listed on different maps. It's not unusual for the same portage to be listed with slightly different lengths depending on the map manufacturer, but this one is exceptional.

One of the reasons for this difference is probably that the portage was re-routed at some point. Which reminds me of when I was paddling the narrows between Little Gabbro and Gabbro Lakes and a perplexed canoeist paddled up for directions. He had been searching unsuccessfully for the portage. The reason for the confusion is that his map had the portaged mis-marked by a long distance. And because the portage landing was near a designated campsite, he felt that it was just the landing for the campsite rather than the actual portage. He appreciated me marking the correct location for the portage.

I've portaged this route many times, and had a guess on the actual length. But, we decided to put the issue to rest and hiked the portage with a GPS unit this week. The above map shows our track from the entry point sign to the lake.

Based on our GPS, the Little Gabbro Lake (BWCAW Entry Point 33) portage is 208 rods. A rod is 16.5', so this translates to .65 miles. As portages go, this is a relatively easy one. It's an old logging road with a good gravel base over much of the distance. It includes rolling hills and a total elevation change of about 24 feet. The hike took us about 16 minutes one way. The lake landing is a great sandy gravel beach at average and higher water levels. At low water levels, it is boot-sucking mud. To avoid the mud, resist the temptation to pull your canoe up at the obvious landing at the trailhead. Instead, go north along the shore toward the nearby campsite, and use the firmer landing there. You will get home with both of your shoes that way.

At Ely Outfitting Company and Boundary Waters Guide Service, we do our best to outfit our guests with the best information for a successful Boundary Waters canoe trip. At our shop in Ely, you'll find our massive write-on map wall covered with specific tips and fresh info for your route. We also sell all of the specialized navigation maps for your Boundary Waters trip. We'll even remind you of the actual length of the Little Gabbro Lake portage.

Dogsledding Photo Workshop with Layne Kennedy, Jan. 29 - Feb. 3

2012-01-16T17:49:00.000-06:00

This is a lot of fun, and there is still space available. Click here for more details on the Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge website.

Inventory of Closed BWCAW Campsites in Area Impacted by Pagami Creek Fire for Start of 2012

2012-01-12T11:12:00.000-06:00

The US Forest Service provided the following information on campsite changes for the start of the 2012 paddling season:

Some BWCAW lakes and rivers will have fewer campsites open for use as a result of the Pagami Creek Fire. Forest Service crews will be opening most impacted campsites early in the 2012 season. However, some campsites will remain closed until wilderness crews can address erosion and safety concerns. And, some campsites may remain closed for several seasons. Please be aware if you plan to camp on the following waterways that some campsites will be closed and you may have to travel further to find an available site. Maps showing the campsites that are currently closed can be found on the Superior National Forest website, and will be updated regularly as campsites are opened.

Ely Outfitting Company and Boundary Waters Guide Service will also identify impacted campsites on the massive write-on map wall in our outfitting shop so guests can easily determine campsite availability if they choose to travel in the small percentage of the BWCA impacted by the burn.

Lake
Campsites Before Pagami
Campsites that will be available for the beginning of the 2012 season
One
12
12
Two
12
12
Three
17
12
Four
16
8
Hudson
12
3
Insula
46
33
Horseshoe
4
1
Brewis
1
0
North Wilder
2
0
South Wilder
2
0
Harbor
2
0
Clearwater
4
4
Gull
5
3
Pietro
4
3
Hudson Pond
1
0
Baskatong
2
0
Bog
4
1
Isabella Lake
11
7
Isabella River
8
2
Island River
3
0
Kawasachong
4
2
Quadga
4
0
Rice
2
0

Changes to BWCAW Entry Permit Quotas for the 2012 Season

2012-01-12T10:14:00.000-06:00

The US Forest Service has notified us of the following changes due to the Pagami Creek Fire:

Forest Service staff evaluated BWCAW campsites within the Pagami Creek Fire burn area and determined that some need to be closed until they can be rehabilitated. Some campsites have safety hazards such as hazard trees and some have resource concerns such as a high potential for erosion. Of the more than 2,100 camp sites in the BWCAW, only 114 were affected by the fire. Of these, roughly 63 received light to moderate fire effects and will be reopened spring 2012 after minor restoration is done. Campsites and trails with more severe fire effects will need additional site work before reopening, and a limited few may need to rest for a few years to allow vegetation to return. Forest Service crews and volunteers will be working diligently to reopen portages and campsites as soon as possible this spring. Because this work will take time, several entry points will have reduced quota for the beginning of the 2012 season. The table below shows the changes to the entry point quotas.

As campsites, portages, and trails are cleared of windfall and are rehabilitated and re-established, the quotas will be adjusted. Updated information will be available on the Superior National Forest website.

Entry Point
Normal Quota
2012 Quota
Rationale
30 - Lake One 18 14 Quota will be 16 after several minimally impacted campsites are rehabilitated.
30F - Lake One Restricted 0 2 This is a new entry point for Lake One. Entry point 30F will include restrictions for no camping on Lakes One, Two, Three, Four, or Hudson at any time. This entry point will be eliminated when the quota for Entry Point 30 can be restored to 18.
34 - Island River 3 0 Island River is closed to overnight and day use going west towards Isabella River. The river is open to day use going south and east to Comfort Lake.
35 - Isabella Lake 3 1 Many campsites were impacted by the fire. The quota will increase after campsites have been rehabilitated in early 2012. Travel is prohibited west of Isabella Lake until we are sure the water route is navigable and portages have been stabilized to address erosion concerns.
67 - Bog Lake 2 0 Route is open to day use only.
75 - Little Isabella River 1 0 Little Isabella River is currently closed to all use because of trees across the portage and river. When trees have been cleared and resource concerns have been mitigated, the route will be open for day use.
86 - Pow wow Trail Unlimited 0 Trail will remain closed until further notice.
84 - Snake River 1 1 Snake River is open but no travel is allowed east of Bald Eagle Lake on Isabella River until the route has been cleared. When route is cleared, travel and camping will be allowed.

Boundary Waters Photo Workshop with Layne Kennedy set for June 19 - 24, 2012

2012-01-09T18:06:00.003-06:00

This unique Photo Workshop trip is a great opportunity to develop your photography skills under the direction of renowned magazine and nature photographer Layne Kennedy. A Minneapolis-based professional photographer, Layne's newest book on the Boundary Waters, titled "Paddle North," was released in November 2010. Layne's work is also featured frequently in Smithsonian, Life, Newsweek, Forbes, Outside, Audubon, Backpacker, Sports Illustrated, and National Geographic publications. His students range from photography professionals to point-and-shoot neophytes.

More info: www.BoundaryWatersGuideService.com/PhotoWorkshop.

Happy Boundary Waters Holidays

2011-12-16T17:26:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from Ely Outfitting Company and Boundary Waters Guide Service! We hope you enjoy your winter looking forward to your next canoe trip in the Boundary Waters, and we hope you enjoy our festive and well-lit approach to the holidays!

USFS Ends Lottery System for Most BWCAW Permits

2011-11-19T08:01:00.004-06:00

Summer BWCAW canoe camping trips still require quota entry permits, but the Forest Service has changed the way early planners apply for those permits.

For years, early planners applied for permits during a Dec. 1 to Jan. 15 "lottery" period. In the lottery, you selected a desired entry point and date. At the end of the lottery period, you received your desired permit, unless there were more applications for that day/entry point than available permits, and a random drawing selected the other applicants over you. In the event you didn't obtain your first permit choice, then you would have the same chance to receive the second or third date/entry point preferences you made in your lottery application.

In reality, something over 95% of overnight paddle permit applicants in the lottery received their first permit choice.

What this change means for you: If you are planning a summer 2012 BWCA canoe trip, you want the best selection of summer camping entry permits, and you are an early planner, then you should apply for your entry permit when quota permits become available at 9 AM on January 25, 2012.

No worries, though, for folks who can't plan that far ahead. Plenty of permits are still available through spring. However, for the best selection of permits for the entry point and date that best fits your interests, we suggest you reserve your permit as soon as you decide to take a Boundary Waters trip. At Ely Outfitting Company and Boundary Waters Guide Service, we're happy to talk you through options and make some routing suggestions that are perfectly suited for your particular interests and expectations. We can also make your permit reservation for you. Feel free to call us at 218-343-7951.

We received the following official notice of the lottery changes by email from the USFS:

Jim Sanders, Forest Supervisor for the Superior National Forest has decided to implement changes to the lottery and reservation system for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).

For 2012, the lottery will be retained for Fall Lake entry points D (Fall Lake & Beyond) and 24 (Fall Lake) and Moose Lake entry points F (Moose-Newfound-Sucker), G (Moose-Prairie-Basswood) and 25 (Moose Lake). People wanting day use motor, overnight motor, and overnight paddle permits for these entry points can continue to use the lottery to make their reservations as they have in the past. All other entry point reservations will be made on a first-come, first-served basis shortly after the lottery is run.

Lottery applications can be made starting from 12:01 am CT on December 19, 2011 to 11:59 pm CT on January 19, 2012. The lottery will run on January 20th. Reservations for all entry points can be made on a first-come, first-served basis starting January 25th at 9:00 am central time. Reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

North American Odyssey Homecoming through the BWCAW

2011-10-26T22:49:00.000-05:00


Dave portaging near the Taltson River in the Northwest Territories.

Dave and Amy Freeman, their friend Bryan Hansel, and their dog Fennel hiked down the Grand Portage to Lake Superior yesterday, completing their 2,300 mile paddle from Fort Resolution, Northwest Territories to Grand Portage, Minnesota. This marks the end of the fourth stage of Dave and Amy's North American Odyssey, an 11,700 mile expedition by canoe, kayak, and dogsled.

The end of their route has taken them through Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and Dave and Amy are thrilled to be back home near Grand Marais as they wrap up this 5-month leg of their journey. Bryan Hansel joined them at Crane Lake for the final 240 mile stretch.

Amy gazing at majestic Manitou Falls on the Fond du Lac River in Saskatchewan.

This stage of the North American Odyssey began in the last week of May while ice still covered most of Great Slave Lake. Dave and Amy worked their way up the remote Taltson and Tazin Rivers in the spring. The clear, cold waters of Lake Athabasca and Reindeer Lake were also on their route, along with the algae-filled waters of Lake Winnipeg. They saw plenty of moose, black bears, loons, tundra swans, and even a couple of woodland caribou.

The purpose of the North American Odyssey is to raise awareness of North America's waterways and wilderness. It is also a call to action, urging people to simplify their lives, reduce their carbon footprints, and get outside to enjoy nature. Their message has been heard by about 65,000 school children from around the globe so far.

Dave and Amy update an educational website, www.WildernessClassroom.com, where students and educators interact with the expedition team. A second website, www.NorthAmericanOdyssey.com serves as a blog for armchair adventurers to see what they are up to.

Bryan, Dave, Amy and Fennel heading out on the last stretch of Stage Four.

The Freemans began the North American Odyssey in the spring of 2010 near Seattle, Washington. They paddled the Inside Passage and then headed inland, working their way up to the Mackenzie River delta. They then turned south and paddled upstream until the snow flew and spent last winter dogsledding across the North West Territories to Fort Resolution.

Despite this homecoming after about five months of paddling, the couple are just over halfway done with the North American Odyssey. They are taking this winter break to give school presentations and attend other speaking engagements. They will be guiding dogsled trips over in Ely, too. In the spring, they will dust off their paddles once again and travel through the Great Lakes out to the East Coast, where they plan to follow the annual whale migration down the Atlantic Coast to the Florida Keys.

Everyone is invited to their pizza bake and slide show at North House on October 27th in Grand Marais. The pizza bake starts at 5 pm, followed by the slide show at 6:30. The Wilderness Classroom will provide the dough, cheese, and sauce. Bring your favorite toppings and invite your friends. All are welcome!

BWCA Fire Ban Has Been Lifted

2011-10-14T12:51:00.002-05:00

The standard BWCA restrictions are back in place: Campfires are permitted in designated fire grates.

Northern Lights in the Boundary Waters

2011-10-09T14:14:00.000-05:00

Some guests spent a week paddling one of my favorite BWCA canoe routes recently. Besides some amazingly warm and lovely late-season weather, they also had a front row seat to a spectacular northern lights display.

Kudos to them for bringing along a nice camera and tripod that allowed them to capture this image of the northern lights reflecting on Crooked Lake in the BWCA.

The northern lights are not more prevalent at a particular time of year, but it is more typical to see them on late-season canoe trips. Why? It must be dark to see the northern lights. It gets dark earlier in the late paddling season. Thus, people are more likely to be awake and, say, sitting around a campfire in the dark at 9PM and catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis in September or October.

Thanks to our outfitting guests, Kate and Berry French, for sharing this photo.

BWCAW Fire Restrictions

2011-10-07T16:26:00.001-05:00

As of today, a total fire ban is in effect in the BWCA - no fires are allowed at any time in the BWCA. Gas and LP stoves are still permitted.

BWCAW Fire Restrictions Lifted

2011-09-30T10:57:00.001-05:00

Fire restrictions have been lifted. Campfires are now allowed within firegrates in the Boundary Waters at any time of day.

BWCAW Closure Map as of Sept. 26

2011-09-27T12:10:00.000-05:00

Some previously closed areas of the Boundary Waters have been reopened by the USFS. This map shows current closures.

Pagami Creek Fire USFS Update - Sept. 26

2011-09-26T21:41:00.002-05:00

With the Pagami Creek Fire now 53% contained and almost a thousand people assigned to the incident, we are going to stop posting these daily updates. Of course, we will provide important news as it arises.

TODAY'S MESSAGE: The Pagami Creek Fire is now 53% contained. Size remains the same at 93,459 acres. Today warmer dryer weather will increase the likelihood for fire activity, and smoke may be visible. Aerial patrol will continue to search for new spot fires and assist ground crews with bucket drops as needed. Yesterday, air resources dropped 267,000 gallons of water, delivered 11,000 pounds of cargo, and conducted 3 reconnaissance flights.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Rehabilitation work will begin on dozer lines outside the wilderness areas.

· New resources will be transitioning with resources timing out.

· Line construction and mop up continues along the fire perimeter.

UPCOMING EVENTS: A community meeting will be held today at the Northern Tier Boy Scout Camp at 2 p.m., and tomorrow at the Isabella Community Center at 11 a.m.

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR: Weather will remain similar to the last two days with some clouds, highs in the upper 60s, lower humidity in the 40% range, and variable winds between 8 -10 mph, with gusts up to 17 to 18 mph. Tomorrow and Wednesday will be warmer, with highs near 70, and slightly windier, with gusts in the teens. A drying trend is expected to continue until Wednesday night. The extended forecast calls for a chance of rain to return to the area Wednesday evening into Thursday. Warmer, drier air is expected to increase fire activity with the possibility of producing more smoke.

AREA/ROAD CLOSURES: Some Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness entry points remain closed for day and overnight use. For a complete list of closures, please visitwww.fs.usda.gov/goto/superior/home.

Highway 1 is open. The following roads, trails, and areas are closed: FR 381 north from the intersection with FR 377 (Tomahawk Rd.) and all areas north and east of FR 381; FR 373 (Northwest Rd.) south from FR 377 to the intersection of FR 369 and all areas north and east of this route; FR 369 east from the intersection of FR 369; FR 373 to the intersection of FR 369 and Lake Cty. Rd 7 (Cramer Rd./Windy Lake Rd.) including all areas north of this route; all areas to the west of Lake Cty. Rd. 7 between the intersections with FR 369 and FR 354 (Cty. Rd. 7 is open for travel); and FR 354 north from the intersection with Lake Cty. Rd 7 and all areas west of FR 354.

DETECTED: August 18, 2011

CAUSE: Lightning

ACREAGE: 93,459

LOCATION: The fire started approximately 13 miles east of Ely.

RESOURCES: There are 968 people assigned to the incident, which is a temporary increase as new crews checked in the day before outgoing crews checked out. Crews consist of 15 hotshot (Type 1) crews, 12 Type 2 crews, and four camp crews. Air operations will continue to support the fire suppression efforts as needed.

American Black Ducks in the BWCA

2011-09-25T12:51:00.000-05:00

The American Black Duck is more brown than black. It was named as such because it appears black from a distance. We spied these ducks recently, camouflaging themselves surprisingly well among the lilypads, which still had a bloom or two remaining. See how many ducks you can spot in the two photos. (Click the photo to see it larger.)

These ducks spend their summers all over the eastern half of Canada and New England, with a few all the way over here in the midwest. Like many birds, these ducks are now migrating south to the eastern half of the US for the winter.

Their numbers have been declining steadily since the 1950s. Ducks.org reports that mallards' upward-rising numbers may possibly be causing this, or possibly interbreeding and/or competition between the two closely-related species.

BWCAW Campfires are Now Allowed from 6PM to Midnight

2011-09-22T17:04:00.000-05:00

We just received a phone call from the Forest Service. They have relaxed the BWCA campfire restrictions. Campfires are now allowed in designated BWCAW firegrates between the hours of 6PM and midnight only. Thank the recent rain.

Pagami Creek Fire Update - Sept. 22

2011-09-22T17:00:00.000-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: The Pagami Creek Fire remains at 30% contained and 93,669 acres. Between 0.2–0.5 inches of rain fell on the fire area yesterday. Since Sunday, 0.75–1 inch of rain has fallen on the fire. Three crews will be flown into Kawishiwi Lake today to start work on the eastern perimeter. On the southern perimeter, crews brushed over 2 miles of road, built 500 feet of dozer line, and 1000 feet of saw line.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Inventory fire line and develop a rehabilitation plan to mitigate the effects of fire suppression.

· Backhaul hose and pumps on the northwest side where the fire is controlled.

· Use fire line explosives to construct 0.25 miles of fire line on the northern perimeter.

· Establish a spike camps on Kwashachong and Square Lakes. Begin direct-line construction from Square Lake to Stringer Lake and to Fungus Lake.

· Continue to construct fire line, scout for hotspots, and mop up.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Community meetings are scheduled for this Saturday (Isabella Community Center, 11:00 a.m.), Sunday (VCC theater, 2:00 p.m.), and Monday (Northern Tier Boy Scout Camp, 2:00 p.m.).

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR: Thursday will be cool and cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Temps will be in the high 40s. Northwest winds will 8–12 mph with gusts to 18 mph. A drying and warming trend will start Friday and extend into the weekend with highs in the mid to upper 60s. A season ending event for this area is considered 2 inches of rain over a three day period. Despite recent rains, the area is still in a 2–2.5 inch of deficit of rain. The fire today is expected to creep and smolder. Starting Saturday, fire behavior might increase slightly from creeping and smoldering to occasional surface fires.

AREA/ROAD CLOSURES: Highway 1 is open. The following roads and trails are closed: THE AREA AND ALL ROADS AND TRAILS NORTH OF Highway 1 starting at intersection of Forest Road (FR) 1468 and Highway 1 east to the intersection of the Wanless Road (FR 172) and Highway 1. The Wanless Road/FR 172 is closed as are all areas north of the Wanless Road/FR 172 to the Lake County Road 7/Cramer Road/Windy Lake Road (Cramer Road). The Cramer Road and all areas north of the Cramer Road are closed from the intersection of Hoist Road and Cramer Road. The Four Mile Grade is closed from the intersection of Cramer Road in Lake County to the Sawbill Road in Cook County; this includes Cook County Road 3.

SAFETY: Public and firefighter safety is the highest priority. Falling trees are a safety concern. The Isabella area has an increase in traffic due to fire crew activity. Be alert, reduce your speed, and be aware of additional vehicles on the roads.

DETECTED: August 18, 2011 CAUSE: Lightning ACREAGE: 93,669

LOCATION: The fire is approximately east of Ely 14 miles.

RESOURCES: There are 858 incident personnel. There are three Type 1 helicopters, and two Type 3 helicopter. Nine hotshot (Type 1) crews, twelve Type 2 crews, and three camp crews are on the incident. There are also nineteen engines, seven dozers, and two water tenders assigned to the incident.

Autumn Arriving in the Boundary Waters

2011-09-22T09:28:00.005-05:00

Autumn is on its way. Several nights ago, our nights saw freezing temperatures, as low as 22 degrees. "Good sleeping weather" as Minnesotans call it. Good thing for down coats and hot water bottles! Every morning we watched the mist gently swirl on the lake's surface as it started to lose some of its heat to the colder air.

On a hike during the day, we experienced a little hail blow over. Everything looked a little more wintry shortly afterwards.

The leaves are starting to change, but are not at peak yet. Some much needed rain the last couple days is dampening the Pagami Creek fire, and will cause the leaf color to last a bit longer.

Pagami Creek Fire USFS Update - Sept. 21

2011-09-21T12:17:00.001-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: The Pagami Creek Fire is now 30% contained. The size decreased to 93,669 acres because of more accurate GPS mapping on the northwest side. Of the total acreage, 9,274 acres are outside the wilderness. Between two tenths to one half of an inch of rain fell on the fire yesterday. Eleven canoes were airlifted into Insula Lake on the eastern side of the fire for incoming crews. The spike camp near Isabella is set up and fully operational for about 300 personnel.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Conduct water-safety training for four new crews.

· Assess the northeast side: scout line, identify camp locations, establish spike camp for crew, and evaluate the perimeter for possible use of fire line explosives to build fire line over rock with shallow soils.

· Continue to patrol and pull hose from containment lines.

· Continue to construct fire line, scout for hotspots, and mop up.

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR: Showers will continue today. Temps will be in the mid to high 40s. Sustained NW winds will be in the teens with gusts in the mid 20s. Precipitation will taper to a drizzle by late Wednesday. An additional two tenths of an inch of rain is expected Wednesday. A drying and warming trend will start Thursday and extend into the weekend. The fire today is expected to continue to creep and smolder.

ROAD CLOSURES AND BLOCKS: Highway 1 is open. Closed roads are roads north of Highway 1 from Forest Road (FR) 1468 east to Isabella; Wanless Road (FR 172) east to Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7; Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 north to FR 354; FR 354 north to BWCAW boundary at Kawishiwi Lake; and the Wanless Road (FR172). In Lake County, road blocks are at the intersections of Highway 1 and the Tomahawk Trail; Highway 1 and Deep Lake Road; Highway 1 and Bandana Road; Highway 1 and Mitawan Lake Road; Highway 1 and Arrowhead Road; Highway 1 and Wanless Road; Wanless Road and Manitou Junction; Wanless Road and Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7; Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 and Hoist Creek Road; and Highway 1 and East Grade Road. In Cook County, a road block is at the intersection of Sawbill Trail and Four-Mile Grade. Four-Mile Grade is closed between FR 339 and FR 340.

SAFETY: Public and firefighter safety is the highest priority. Falling trees are a safety concern. There has been one injury to date.

DETECTED: August 18, 2011 CAUSE: Lightning ACREAGE: 93,669

LOCATION: The fire started at Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the BWCAW) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One. The fire perimeter from the north is Lake One, Two, Four, and Lake Insula. The eastern perimeter is the southern edge of Lake Polly and east of Kawasachong Lake, west of Perent Lake, and northwest of Silver Island Lake. The southern perimeter crosses the intersection of Island River Road and Lake Twenty-Nine Road, Twenty-Nine Lake, and the Isabella River to Bog Lake.

RESOURCES: There are 781 incident personnel, and three crews will be arriving today. There are three Type 1 helicopters, and two Type 3 helicopter. Six hotshot (Type 1) crews, twelve Type 2 crews, and two camp crews are on the incident. There are also twenty-three engines, seven dozers, and three water tenders assigned to the incident.

Pagami Creek Fire USFS Update - Sept. 20

2011-09-20T16:17:00.001-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: The Pagami Creek Fire is now 23% contained. The size remains unchanged at 93,898 acres. Although the fire area received a half inch of rain on Sunday, when fire-behavior specialists flew over the fire on Monday afternoon they observed some trees torching, which is an indication that the fuels are still quite dry. However, today and Wednesday will be extremely wet, which will temper fire activity, increase fuel moisture, and begin to reduce the fire-danger indices. The fire is expected to smolder and creep today. Crews on Division B made good progress yesterday, constructing 2 miles of fire line eastward. Crews on Division C established and constructed 1.5 miles of line. Two resource advisers got to Division D and are scouting and planning in advance of crews being assigned to the division. Crews on the southern part of the fire also made good progress mopping up and securing line. Helicopters delivered 10,000 pounds of cargo to fire crews. Type 1 helicopters dropped 86 buckets on the fire area.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Continue to assess Division D: scout line, identify camp locations, and establish spike camp for crew.

· Continue to patrol and pull hose from the containment line.

· Continue to expand fire line, scout for hotspots, and mop up.

WEATHER: Scattered showers and a few thunderstorms are expected to move into the area this morning and continue throughout the day, dropping a quarter inch of rain. Highs will be in the low 60s. Winds will be from the south to southeast at 10–15 mph with gusts around 20 mph. Another quarter inch of rain is expected Wednesday. A drying trend will start Thursday and extend into the weekend.

BOUNDARY WATERS CANOE AREA WILDERNESS (BWCAW): The Superior National Forest has increased the number of entry points and portages that are open to the public. Detailed information can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/superior/home or www.inciweb.org/incident/2534 or by calling 218-365-7600.

ROAD CLOSURES AND BLOCKS: Highway 1 is still open. Closed roads include all roads north of Highway 1 from Forest Road (FR) 1468 east to Isabella; Wanless Road (FR 172) east to Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7; Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 north to FR 354; FR 354 north to BWCAW boundary at Kawishiwi Lake; and the Wanless Road (FR172). Additional closures may occur.

In Lake County, road blocks are at the intersections of Highway 1 and the Tomahawk Trail; Highway 1 and Deep Lake Road; Highway 1 and Bandana Road; Highway 1 and Mitawan Lake Road; Highway 1 and Arrowhead Road; Highway 1 and Wanless Road; Wanless Road and Manitou Junction; Wanless Road and Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7; Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 and Hoist Creek Road; and Highway 1 and East Grade Road.

In Cook County, a road block is at the intersection of Sawbill Trail and Four-Mile Grade. Four-Mile Grade is closed between FR 339 and FR 340.

SAFETY: Public and firefighter safety is the highest priority. Falling trees are a safety concern; a firefighter was taken to the hospital yesterday with a leg injury. Forest-wide fire restrictions remain in effect, and details can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/superior/home orwww.inciweb.org/incident/2534. Information on smoke conditions can be found on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency website:www.pca.state.mn.us.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011

CAUSE: Lightning

CURRENT SIZE: 93,898 acres

LOCATION: The fire started at Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the BWCAW) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One. The fire perimeter from the north is Lake One, Two, Four, and Lake Insula. The eastern perimeter is the southern edge of Lake Polly and east of Kawasachong Lake, west of Perent Lake, and northwestern of Silver Island Lake. The southern perimeter crosses the intersection of Island River Road and Lake Twenty-Nine Road, Twenty-Nine Lake, and the Isabella River to Bog Lake.

RESOURCES: There are 738 incident personnel. There are four Type 1 helicopters, one Type 2 helicopters, and two Type 3 helicopter. Five hotshot (Type 1) crews, twelve Type 2 crews, and two camp crews are on the incident. There are also seventeen engines, six dozers, and two water tenders assigned to the incident.

Pagami Creek Fire USFS Update - Sept. 19

2011-09-19T11:16:00.001-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: The Pagami Creek fire is now 19% contained. Fire behavior was minimal Sunday, largely due to the one-third inch of rain that fell across the fire area, and the size remained the same at 93,898 acres. Today, fire-behavior specialists expect minimal to no fire spread with a little creeping and smoldering over the entire fire area. With the combination of precipitation, bucket drops, and cooler temperatures, five or six days of drying are needed before fire activity would increase.

Crews on Division B made good progress on the northern perimeter and extended line a half mile eastward. Crews from Divisions A and Z have been constructing line toward each other, and yesterday they met, creating a longer containment line on the northwest part of the fire. Crews on the southern part of the fire constructed 3,000 feet of dozer line and laid 1.5 miles of hose. Public-safety crews continue to assist campers out of the wilderness lakes and portages that are closed. Full-time residents in the mandatory evacuation area east of Isabella are now allowed access to their homes and property. The evacuation area remains closed to seasonal residents and the public. Closed roads are still staffed 24 hours a day by law enforcement. The fire remains under unified command with Cook and Lake Counties.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Host a community meeting at the Isabella Community Center at 11:00 a.m.

· Assess Division D: scout line and identify camp location, sling sites, and evacuation plan.

· Continue to monitor the 19% containment line, mop up, construct direct fire line, and backhaul hose and equipment from Division A (point-of-origin area).

· Continue to prepare the spike camp near Isabella for crews to be based there closer to the southern edge of the fire.

WEATHER:

The weather will be warm and mostly sunny today, with a high of 69–71 degrees. The relative humidity is 90% this morning but will drop to 28–33% this afternoon. Winds, 10–14 mph, will be from the west and northwest and gusts will be around 18 mph. Tuesday will be cool and wet with a low around 40 degrees and showers and isolated thunderstorms. Morning winds will be from the south and southeast (4–7 mph) and will switch to the southwest in the afternoon (10–14 mph, gusts 20 mph). Over Tuesday and Wednesday, a minimum of a half inch of rain should fall. Drier and gradually warming temperatures are expected Thursday.

BOUNDARY WATERS CANOE AREA WILDERNESS (BWCAW): The following entry points are OPEN: entry points along the Echo Trail (including Mudro); #25 Moose Lake (travel allowed only up the chain and to the west); #26 Wood Lake; #24 Fall Lake; the entire Trout Lake section (separate section south of the Echo Trail); #42 Brule ONLY; #54A Seagull ONLY; #55A Saganaga ONLY; and the small separate section northeast of the Gunflint Trail from #58 South Lake on the west to #70 North Fowl on the east. All other entry points in the BWCAW are closed.

ROAD CLOSURES: Highway 1 is still open. Closed roads include all roads north of Highway 1 from Forest Road (FR) 1468 east to Isabella; Wanless Road (FR 172) east to Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7; Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 north to FR 354; FR 354 north to BWCAW boundary at Kawishiwi Lake; and the Wanless Road (FR172). Additional closures may occur.

ROAD BLOCKS:

In Lake County, road blocks are at the intersections of Highway 1 and the Tomahawk Trail; Highway 1 and Deep Lake Road; Highway 1 and Bandana Road; Highway 1 and Mitawan Lake Road; Highway 1 and Arrowhead Road; Highway 1 and Wanless Road; Wanless Road and Manitou Junction; Wanless Road and Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7; Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 and Hoist Creek Road; and Highway 1 and East Grade Road. In Cook County, a road block is at the intersection of Sawbill Trail and Four-Mile Grade. Four-Mile Grade is closed between FR 339 and FR 340.

SAFETY: Public and firefighter safety is the highest priority. No injuries, accidents, or swamped canoes have been reported. Forest-wide fire restrictions remain: building, maintaining, or using a fire or campfire, including charcoal fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills, is prohibited on all lands (federal, state, local government, and private) within the administrative boundaries of the Superior National Forest. Charcoal grills are allowed at private residences. Use of pressurized liquid gas stoves is allowed. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and incident personnel are monitoring smoke conditions. Visit the following website for more information: pca.state.mn.us

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011

CAUSE: Lightning

CURRENT SIZE: 93,898 acres

LOCATION: The fire started at Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the BWCAW) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One. The fire perimeter from the north is Lake One, Two, Four, and Lake Insula. The eastern perimeter is the southern edge of Lake Polly and east of Kawasachong Lake, west of Perent Lake, and northwestern of Silver Island Lake. The southern perimeter crosses the intersection of Island River Road and Lake Twenty-Nine Road, Twenty-Nine Lake, and the Isabella River toBog Lake.

AGENCIES: Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, and Superior National Forest

RESOURCES: There are 598 people assigned to the fire, which includes five Type 1 crews (hotshot crews) and eight Type 2 crews. There are four Type 1 helicopters, three Type 2 helicopters, one Type 3 helicopter, thirteen engines, six dozers, and 1 water tender assigned to the incident. There are 76 canoes. On Saturday, September 17th, air support dropped over 650,000 gallons of water on the fire.

Photos of Basswood Lodge on Basswood Lake

2011-09-19T09:46:00.000-05:00

One of our canoe trip outfitting guests shared some historic photos from the old Basswood Lodge on Basswood Lake near Ely, MN. The photos are from the collection of her late father, Harold Rosencrans, of Lebanon, Ohio. Harold vacationed with his family on Basswood Lake. The photos may be from the 50s or 60s. Above is a color postcard of Basswood Fishing Lodge, and the two images below appear to be photographs.

Basswood Lodge was known in part for exceptional log craftsmanship. After the federal government bought out all of these old resorts, some of the log cabins were disassembled, moved, and reassembled outside of the BWCA. One example is the Ely Chamber of Commerce - which was formerly one of the log cabins at Basswood Lodge.

Some of the locations of old lodges are now sites of BWCA campsites, and an excellent campsite is now near the location of this historic resort. But tent campers today won't see the human-made structures shown in these photos. The lodge, spectacular dock system and bridge shown in these photographs live on only in photographs and memories.

If you have historic Boundary Waters photos and an interest in sharing them, please let us know and we're happy to post them with your stories on our blog.

Pagami Creek Fire USFS Update - Sept. 18

2011-09-18T13:05:00.001-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: The fire is now 11% contained. The size increased slightly on Saturday from 93,472 acres to 93,898 acres. Crews completed structure protection on 30 structures on the south side of the fire. Air resources were used to their maximum capacity yesterday. Four helicopters flew a total of 25 hours dropping water on the fire perimeter, especially on the southern portion. Scoopers (CL-215s) also dropped a lot of water on the fire yesterday, focusing on the northern and eastern perimeter. Ground crews were equally busy, fighting the fire directly by continuing to construct fire line with saws and dozers and to lay hose. Crews deployed over 5,600 feet of hose on the southern perimeter alone. Today, a logistics crew is setting up a spike camp near Isabella, which will provide hot meals, showers, toilets, and camping space to more than 250 firefighters, engines, and camp personnel. Today’s humidities over 40% and the expected moisture will result in a creeping, smoldering fire across the entire fire area. The fire remains under unified command with Cook and Lake Counties.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Host a community meeting at the Northern Tier Boy Scout Camp east of Ely off the Fernberg Trail (14798 Moose Lake Road) at 2:00 p.m.

· Host a community meeting at the Isabella Community Center at 11:00 a.m.

· Continue to monitor the 11% containment line.

· Continue to patrol and monitor for spots; construct direct line with hand tools, saws, and dozers; and mop up.

WEATHER: Winds early today will come from the south and southeast at 8–10 mph. By late morning the winds will come from the south and increase to 10–14 mph and gust at 18–23 mph. Scattered showers are expected throughout the day, providing a tenth of an inch or less of rain. Today’s high will be around 57 degrees and humidities will stay above 45% in the afternoon. The Haines Index is 3, which is very low. Over the next couple days, the winds will be affecting the fire from different directions: Monday’s winds will come from the northwest and then the west (10–15 mph, gusts to 20 mph), and Tuesday’s winds will be from the southwest and then the northwest (10–15 mph, gusts to 20 mph).

In Cook County, a road block is at the intersection of Sawbill Trail and Four-Mile Grade (Cook County Road 3 north of that intersection is closed). Four-Mile Grade is closed between FR 339 and FR 340.

Additional closures may occur.

SAFETY: Public and firefighter safety is the highest priority. No injuries, accidents, or swamped canoes have been reported. Forest-wide fire restrictions remain: building, maintaining, or using a fire or campfire, including charcoal fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills, is prohibited on all lands (federal, state, local government, and private) within the administrative boundaries of the Superior National Forest. Charcoal grills are allowed at private residences. Use of pressurized liquid gas stoves is allowed. With increased traffic due to the fire and grouse-season, all drivers—the public and fire personnel—should be alert and drive safely. Because the area’s soils and the root-systems of trees are shallow, fire can burn and weaken the roots but leave trees standing. The stability of the burned standing trees is deceptive, and they can fall over easily in windy, gusty conditions.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011

CAUSE: Lightning

CURRENT SIZE: 93,898 acres

LOCATION: The fire started at Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the BWCAW) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One. The fire perimeter from the north is Lake One, Lake Two, Lake Four, and Lake Insula. The perimeter on the east is the southern edge of Lake Polly and east of Kawasachong Lake, the northwest and southern shores of Square Lake, the western shore of Perent Lake, and the northwestern shore of Silver Island Lake, where the fire exited the BWCAW. The southern perimeter crosses the intersection of Island River Road and Lake Twenty-Nine Road, Twenty-Nine Lake, and the Isabella River to just inside the BWCAW at Bog Lake.

AGENCIES: Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, and Superior National Forest

SMOKE CONDITIONS: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and incident personnel are monitoring smoke conditions. Visit the following website for more information: pca.state.mn.us

RESOURCES: There are 565 people assigned to the fire, which includes five Type 1 crews (hotshot crews) and eight Type 2 crews. There are also three Type 2 helicopters, one Type 1 helicopter, eleven engines, four dozers, and 1 water tender assigned to the incident.

Pagami Creek Fire USFS Update - Sept. 17

2011-09-17T10:37:00.000-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: The incident commander announced Friday evening that the fire is 8% contained. Also, fire managers were able to more accurately map the fire’s perimeter on Friday and decreased the acreage from an estimated 100,000 acres to a more precise 93,472 acres. Minnesota’s Governor Dayton, Senators Klobuchar and Franken, and Representative Cravaak toured the fire area on Friday morning. The fire remains under unified command with Cook and Lake Counties. Lake County Commissioners, the Northern Rockies Incident Management Team (IMT), and Aultman’s Type 2 IMT (based in Cook County) began a coordinated effort to develop an integrated evacuation and structure-protection plan for the southeastern portion of the fire area. An Ontario liaison arrived and will remain on the incident. Despite warmer temperatures, drier air, and slightly stronger winds on Friday, the fire primarily crept and smoldered along the ground. The fire will be more active today than it was yesterday, especially on the northern edge, because of increased southerly winds, stronger gusts, and very dry fuels. Most crews and air resources will be working on the northern and southern sides of the fire. As always, firefighter and public safety is the top priority.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Continue to monitor the 8% containment line.

· Continue to construct and extend direct fire lines with saws, brush cutters, and dozers and lay fire hose on the fire’s perimeter.

· Be on the alert for spot fires, and use fire crews to direct air resources to drop water where needed.

· Host a community meeting at the Isabella Community Center at 11:00 a.m.

BWCAW CLOSURES: The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) closures remain the same. The following entry points are open: entry points along the Echo Trail (including Mudro); #25 Moose Lake (travel allowed only up the chain and to the west); #26 Wood Lake; #24 Fall Lake; the whole Trout Lake section (separate section south of the Echo Trail); #42 Brule ONLY; #54A Seagull ONLY; #55A Saganaga ONLY; and the small separate section northeast of the Gunflint Trail from #58 South Lake on the west to #70 North Fowl on the east.

ROAD CLOSURES: Highway 1 is still open.

Closed roads include

· All roads north of Highway 1 from Forest Road (FR) 1468 east to Isabella

· Wanless Road (FR 172) east to Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7

· Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 north to FR 354

· FR 354 north to BWCAW boundary at Kawishiwi Lake

· Wanless Road (FR172)

ROAD CLOSURES CONTINUED:

In Lake County, staffed road blocks will be at the intersections of

· the Wanless and Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7

· Highway 1 and the Wanless Road

· Highway 1 and the Tomahawk Trail

In Cook County, a staffed road block is at the intersection of the Sawbill Trail and Four-Mile Grade so Cook County Road 3 north of that intersection is closed.

Additional closures may occur.

SAFETY: Public and firefighter safety is the highest priority. Forest-wide fire restrictions remain: building, maintaining, or using a fire or campfire, including charcoal fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills, is prohibited on all lands (federal, state, local government, and private) within the administrative boundaries of the Superior National Forest. Charcoal grills are allowed at private residences. Use of pressurized liquid gas stoves is allowed. With increased traffic due to the fire and grouse-season starting today, all drivers—the public and fire personnel—should be alert and drive safely.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011

CAUSE: Lightning

CURRENT SIZE: 93,472 acres

LOCATION: The fire started at Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the BWCAW) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One. The fire perimeter from the north is Lake One, Lake Two, Lake Four, and Lake Insula. The perimeter on the east is the southern edge of Lake Polly and east of Kawasachong Lake, the northwest and southern shores of Square Lake, the western shore of Perent Lake, and the northwestern shore of Silver Island Lake, where the fire exited the BWCAW. The southern perimeter crosses the intersection of Island River Road and Lake Twenty-Nine Road, Twenty-Nine Lake, and the Isabella River to just inside the BWCAW at Bog Lake.

AGENCIES: Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, and Superior National Forest

SMOKE CONDITIONS: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and incident personnel are monitoring smoke conditions. Visit the following website for more information: pca.state.mn.us

RESOURCES: There are 510 people assigned to the fire. Five Type 1 crews and eight Type 2 crews are on the incident. Seven helicopters, including four National Guard Black Hawks, are assigned to the incident. Eight fixed-wing aircraft are assigned, including three float planes, two air tankers, and three air-attack planes.

Pagami Creek Fire USFS Update - Sept. 16

2011-09-16T14:02:00.000-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: Doug Turman’s Northern Rockies Type 1 National Incident Management Team assumed management of the Pagami Creek Fire yesterday. The fire is still under the unified command of the Lake and Cook County sheriff’s offices and the Superior National Forest. Moderated fire behavior continued yesterday with the cooler temperatures, higher humidities, and lighter winds. Operations personnel made significant progress on both the northern and southern perimeters. Firefighters attacked the northwestern corner and pushed east along the northern perimeter. On the western flank, a crew began constructing line starting at Clearwater Lake and working toward the northwest. Sprinkler systems were installed on two portages. The southern divisions mopped up a small spot fire south of Bog Lake. Outside the wilderness, bulldozers were used to clear line and engine crews supported hand crews. A large spike camp has been established near Isabella. Additional fire restrictions go into effect today (see below).

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

· Continue to provide for the safety of the public and firefighters.

· Extend hose lays further east along the northern perimeter.

· Continue to construct line along the southern perimeter outside the wilderness before attacking the flanks within the wilderness.

· Complete water-safety training and other orientation with newly arrived crews.

· Host a community meeting at the Isabella Community Center at 11:00 a.m.

· Staff a Joint Information Center from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Kawishiwi Ranger District Office in Ely.

ROAD CLOSURES: Road closures remain the same. Highway 1 is still open. Closed roads include

· All roads north of Highway 1 from Forest Road (FR) 1468 east to Isabella

· Wanless Road (FR 172) east to Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7

· Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 north to FR 354

· FR 354 north to BWCAW boundary at Kawishiwi Lake

· Wanless Road (FR172)

Staffed road blocks within Lake County will be at

· intersection of Wanless and Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7

· Highway 1 and Wanless Road

· Highway 1 and Tomahawk Trail

The road block within Cook County will be Highway 3 just west of Sawbill Road. Additional closures may occur.

SAFETY: As of today, September 16, building, maintaining, or using a fire or campfire, including charcoal fires, wood-burning campstoves, and charcoal grills, is prohibited anywhere on national forest lands within the Superior National Forest, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Use of pressurized liquid gas stoves is allowed.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011

CAUSE: Lightning

CURRENT SIZE: 100,000 acres

LOCATION: The fire started at Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the BWCAW) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One. The fire perimeter from the north is Lake One, Lake Two, Lake Four, and Lake Insula. The perimeter on the east is the southern edge of Lake Polly and east of Kawasachong Lake, the northwest and southern shores of Square Lake, the western shore of Perent Lake, and the northwestern shore of Silver Island Lake, where the fire exited the BWCAW. The southern perimeter crosses the intersection of Island River Road and Lake Twenty-Nine Road, Twenty-Nine Lake, and the Isabella River to just inside the BWCAW at Bog Lake.

AGENCIES: Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, and Superior National Forest

SMOKE CONDITIONS: Smoke may be heavy and widespread depending on wind direction and speed.

RESOURCES: One hundred firefighters from Arizona were added yesterday, bringing personnel up to 436. Five Type 1 crews and eight Type 2 crews are on the incident. Seven helicopters, including four National Guard Black Hawks, are assigned to the incident. Eight fixed-wing aircraft are assigned, including three float planes, two air tankers, and three air-attack planes.

BWCA Fire Ban Effective Now

2011-09-16T08:47:00.001-05:00

We just received a call from the Forest Service stating that a total fire ban is now in effect for the entire Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. No campfires are allowed in the Boundary Waters until further notice.

Pagami Creek Fire Progression Map

2011-09-15T09:54:00.000-05:00

This fire progression map is color-coded by day through September 13.

Pagami Creek Fire Map of Sept. 13 at 7PM

2011-09-14T12:52:00.000-05:00

At about 100,000 acres, the Pagami Fire is the third largest wildfire in Minnesota history. This map shows the fire extending east to Parent and Kawishiwi Lakes.

Pagami Creek Fire Update for Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011

2011-09-14T12:15:00.001-05:00

Contact: Fire Information 218-365-3177

TODAY'S MESSAGE: The Pagami Creek Fire continues under Unified Command of Lake County, MNICS, and the Superior National Forest. Acreage increased yesterday due in large part to improved mapping of the fire perimeter as the smoke cleared. The fire did push farther south, exiting the southern Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) boundary about one mile in a wavering line. Despite gusting winds, there was limited fire growth due to lower temperatures and higher humidity. Crews were very effective in continuing to hold the northwest corner of the fire. Areas around the fire were assessed and additional BWCAW and road closures were enacted. The National Guard is sending four Blackhawk helicopters and Manitoba is sending two water bombers and an air attack plane. Approximately 170 people attended a community meeting in Ely yesterday evening. About 40 people attended a meeting in Grand Marais yesterday evening.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:

Containment efforts have begun with heavy equipment outside the wilderness along the southern perimeter. Crews will be patrolling lines and monitoring for any hot spots.

Airplanes and helicopters are being used to drop water to slow the spread of the fire.

Community Meetings will be held at the Poplar Lake Fire Hall on the Gunflint Trail at 11:00 a.m. and at the Isabella Community Center at 11:00 a.m., today, September 14, 2011.

BWCAW CLOSURES: All entry points are closed except for: entry points along the Echo Trail (including Mudro); #25 Moose Lake (travel allowed only up the chain and to the west); #26 Wood Lake; #24 Fall Lake; the whole Trout Lake section (separate section south of the Echo Trail); #42 Brule ONLY; #54A Seagull ONLY; #55A Saganaga ONLY; and the Vento section (small separate section northeast of the Gunflint Trail).

ROAD CLOSURES: All roads north of the following route are closed: Highway 1 from Forest Road (FR) 1468 east to Isabella; Wanless Road (FR 172) east to Cramer/Lake County Road 7; Cramer/Lake County Road 7 north to FR 354; FR 354 north to BWCAW boundary at Kawishiwi Lake. Highway 1 is still open. The Wanless Road is closed. Road blocks staffed within Lake County will be at the intersections of Wanless and Cramer, Highway 1 and Wanless, Hwy 1 and Tomahawk Trail. Road blocks within Cook County will be Hwy 3 just west of Sawbill Road. Additional closures may occur.

SAFETY: The Superior National Forest and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are enacting additional fire restrictions for areas outside the BWCAW. Go to thehttp://www.inciweb.org/, MNICS.org and the Superior National Forest websites for further information.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011

CAUSE: Lightning

CURRENT SIZE: 100,000 acres

LOCATION: Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One.

AGENCY: Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District

SMOKE CONDITIONS: Smoke may be heavy and wide-spread depending on wind direction.

RESOURCES: 230 personnel are assigned to the fire.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Phone (218) 365-3177

Internet: www.inciweb.org/incident/2534

Pagami Creek Fire Talking Points from USFS

2011-09-13T17:32:00.000-05:00

Talking Points for Tuesday, September 13, 2011

1. Large portions of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) are now closed to visitor use, due to the Pagami Creek fire which has been exhibiting extreme fire behavior and fire spread. There are not enough public safety personnel to provide safe passage if the public continues to access the wilderness.

All Entry points are closed except for :
Entry points along the Echo Trail (including Mudro);
#25 Moose Lake (travel allowed only up the chain and to the west);
#26 Wood Lake
#24 Fall Lake
The whole Trout Lake Section;
# 42 Brule-Only ;
#54A Seagull Only;
# 55A Saganaga Only; and
Vento section (the small separate section northeast of the Gunflint Trail)

2. Weather will continue to be a factor in fire spread for the next two days (high winds). Winds are currently from the west at 16 mph with gusts to 28.
3. Safety is of the highest concern and there have been no injuries. There has been no loss of structure.
4. There will be a Community meeting 7 PM tonight at the Vermillion Community College Theater.
5. We are very grateful to the communities from the East Range Coalition Fire Departments and local residents who have made equipment available to aide in local fire-fighting efforts. Thank you!
6. Public Meetings:
a. Gunflint Trail Poplar Lake Fire Hall 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 14, 2011
b. Gunflint Ranger District Office 7 p.m., Tuesday, September 13, 2011
c. Kawishiwi Ranger District Office 7 p.m., Tuesday, September 13, 2011
7. Under Unified Command with Lake County and Cook County Sheriff’s Offices

Official USFS Closure Notice for Areas in the BWCAW and Superior National Forest

2011-09-13T17:22:00.001-05:00

Underauthority of the Act of Congress of June 4, 1897, 16 USC 551, and pursuant tothe Secretary of Agriculture’s Regulations set forth at 36 CFR 261.50(a) and261.50(b), and 261.50(f), the following acts or omissions are prohibited onportions of Superior National Forest System lands, roads and trails, LakeCounty, Cook County. Minnesota, effective September 13, 2011:

1. BWCAW CAMPSITE CLOSURE:It is prohibited to be upon BWCAW campsites and areas which are postedclosed. Closed areas are marked with aclosure notice visible at the site. 36CFR 261.53(e) Special Closures, Public Health or Safety.

2. AFFECTED AREA: All campsites/areas/entry points of theBoundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

EXCEPT FOR THE FOLLOWING:

a. Entrypoints along the Echo Trail (including Mudro)

b. #25 MooseLake Chain (Travel allowed only up the chain and to the west)

c. #26 WoodLake.

d. #24 FallLake.

e. The wholeTrout Lake Section.

f. #42Brule-Only.

g. #54ASeagull Only.

h. #55ASaganaga Only>

i. Ventosection(the small separate section northeast of the Gunflint Trail)

3. AFFECTED AREA: The following roads are closed.

a. CountyHighway 7 North at the intersection of 4 mile Grade Rd.

All ROADS AND TRAILS NORTH OF 4 MILE GRADERD/170/The Grade Rd.

b. WilsonLake Rd.

c. ForestRoad 355

d. ForestRoad 348

e. ForestRoad 1226

f. ForestRoad 347

g. ForestRoad 1238

h. SawbillRoad Cook Co.2

All of Forest Road 339/Rice Lake Rd startingat the intersection of The Grade Rd/170 ending at Forest Road 340/Rice Lake Rd.

All of Forest Road 340/Clara Lake Rd startingat Forest Road 339/Rice Lake Rd and ending at the Grade Rd/170

4. Closure signs will be used at normalpoints of access to delineate the closure area. See vicinity map, Exhibit A.

Map of Massive BWCAW Closures Due to Pagami Creek Fire

2011-09-13T17:17:00.000-05:00

We just received this from the USFS at about 5PM. Brown is the closure area. The red outline shows the burned area as of yesterday at 7PM.

Pagami Creek Fire Update - Sept. 13

2011-09-13T13:25:00.001-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: Yesterday, a finger of the Pagami Creek Fire made an unprecedented 16 mile run to the east, reaching the edge of Polly Lake. The fire became a plume-driven event and reached in excess of 60,000 acres. The fire is now under Unified Command with Lake County Sheriff’s Office as full partners of management of this fire. Residents were evacuated from 36 addresses along the portion of the Cramer Road/Lake County Road 7 from Kawishiwi Lake south to the Wanless Road (Forest Road 172) and along the Wanless Road west from the junction with the Cramer Road to Homestead Lake. Public Safety crews continue to range the wilderness, moving visitors out of areas where they may be at risk. A town meeting held in Isabella was attended by about 100 concerned residents. Winds are expected to be strong and out of the northwest and west again today with little or no precipitation expected.

ACTIVITIES TODAY: Hand crews on the north side of the fire will be patrolling lines and monitoring for any fire spread Airplanes and helicopters are being used to drop water to slow the spread of the fire. Areas around the fire within the BWCAW are being assessed to plan for visitor evacuation and closure. A Community Meeting will be held at the Vermilion Community College in Ely, Minnesota tonight, September 13, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. Daily public meetings will be held in Isabella Community Center at 11:00 a.m. A Joint Information Center has been set up in the Kawishiwi Ranger District Office for answering both Superior National Forest and Lake County questions.

BWCAW CLOSURES: Closures will be added soon. A complete list will be sent out soon. ROAD CLOSURES: All roads north of the following route are closed: Highway 1 from Forest Road (FR) 1468 east to Isabella; Wanless Road (FR 172) east to Lake County Road 7; Lake County Road 7 north to FR 354; FR 354 north to BWCAW boundary at Kawishiwi Lake. Highway 1 is still open. Road blocks staffed within Lake County will be at the intersections of Wanless and Cramer, Highway 1 and Wanless, Hwy 1 and Tomahawk Trail. Road blocks within Cook County will be Hwy 3 just west of Sawbill Road. Additional closures may occur.

SAFETY: The Superior National Forest and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are enacting additional fire restrictions for areas outside the BWCAW. Go to the MNICS.org and the Superior National Forest websites for further information.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011
CAUSE: Lightning CURRENT SIZE: in excess of 60,000 acres
LOCATION: Township 63 N, Range 9 W, approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One.
AGENCY: Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District
SMOKE CONDITIONS: Smoke may be heavy and wide spread depending on wind direction. RESOURCES: Nearly 200 personnel are assigned to the fire.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Phone (218) 365-3177

Pagami Creek Fire - Sept. 12 Update

2011-09-12T09:45:00.000-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE: Yesterday, strong north winds drove a point of the Pagami Creek Fire south toward the Isabella River. Approximately 50 campers from the river and lake routes south of the fire and 70 campers along the eastern front of the fire were assisted out of the wilderness by Public Safety Crews. Entry points near the fire were closed and campers with reservations were given the option to reserve a new permit with available quota from other entry points. Wilderness wide campfire restrictions were enacted. Campfires will be allowed only between 6:00 p.m. and midnight until further notice.

ACTIVITIES TODAY: Public Safety crews are posted at portages and entry points to keep visitors clear of areas threatened by fire as well as those areas that may fill with dense smoke. Airplanes and helicopters are being used to drop water, keeping the fire within the wilderness and south and east of the Kawishiwi River. Crews will focus containment efforts on the northern edge and southern tip of the fire.

CLOSURES: Most of the BWCAW remains safe and open to visitors. To insure public safety the following waterways and portages are closed: Lakes One through Hudson, Fire, Bridge, Rifle, the Wilders, Horseshoe, Pagami, Clearwater, Turtle, Camdre, Pietro, Gull, Quadga, Rice, Isabella Lake, and the Isabella River. The southern campsites on Bald Eagle are closed. The Pow Wow Trail is closed. The following entry points are closed: #30 Lake One, #84 Snake River, #75 Little Isabella River, #67 Bog Lake, #86 Pow Wow Trail, #35 Isabella Lake, and #34 Island River. Today, campsites on the southern end of Insula Lake will be added to the closures. Sites, routes and portages will be re-opened as soon as it is safe to do so.

SAFETY: Public Safety crews will be working with campers in nearby lakes including Insula to advise them of safe travel routes. Campfire restrictions are in place. In the entire BWCAW campfires are allowed only between 6 p.m. and midnight. Be sure that campfires are doused thoroughly until cold to the touch.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011
CAUSE: Lightning
CURRENT SIZE: approximately 11,000 acres--acreage is expected to increase today due to weather conditions.
LOCATION: Township 63 N, Range 9 W, Sections 30, 31, 32: approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One.
AGENCY: Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District
SMOKE CONDITIONS: Smoke may be heavy and wide spread depending on wind direction.RESOURCES: A 20 person Minnesota Incident Command System crew of firefighters arrived last night. Another crew is on order. Yesterday, we received assistance from a Canadian air tanker. A helicopter and a CL-215 air tanker are at the Ely tanker base.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Phone (218) 365-3177 Internet: www.inciweb.org/incident/2534

BWCA Fire Restrictions Effective Today

2011-09-12T08:33:00.001-05:00

Effective September 12, 2011, campfires are only allowed in designated campsites within firegrates between 6PM and midnight.

I snapped this photo of the Fire Danger sign outside the USFS Kawishiwi Ranger District office yesterday.

Pagami Creek Fire in BWCAW - Sept. 11, 2011

2011-09-11T11:18:00.000-05:00

TODAY’S MESSAGE:  Yesterday’s dry air and north winds pushed the Pagami Creek Fire farther south yesterday. In consideration of today’s high fire indices, fire managers began a proactive movement of campers from Lakes Two through Hudson, nearby routes, and the Isabella River within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Specific closures are listed below. Most of the BWCAW remains safe and open to visitors eager to enjoy the fall season.

ACTIVITIES TODAY:
Public Safety crews are sweeping the areas to be closed, assisting campers into other lakes.
Airplanes and helicopters are being used to drop water, keeping the fire within the wilderness and south and east of the Kawishiwi River.

CLOSURES: The vast majority of the BWCAW remains safe and open to visitors. To insure public safety the following waterways and portages are temporarily closed: Lakes One through Hudson, Fire, Bridge, Rifle, the Wilders, Horseshoe, Pagami, Clearwater, Turtle, Camdre, Pietro, Gull, Quadga, Rice, Isabella Lake, and the Isabella River. The southern campsites on Bald Eagle are closed. The Pow Wow Trail is closed. Sites, routes and portages will be re-opened as soon as it is safe to do so. The following entry points are closed: #30 Lake One, #84 Snake River, #75 Little Isabella River, #67 Bog Lake, #86 Pow Wow Trail, #35 Isabella Lake, and #34 Island River. Campers already in the BWCAW will be able to travel through these routes to exit the wilderness but visitors will not be allowed to enter at these points until further notice.

SAFETY: Campfire restrictions are in place. Wilderness wide, campfires are allowed only between 6 p.m. and midnight. Be sure that campfires are doused thoroughly until cold to the touch.

DATE OF DETECTION: August 18, 2011
CAUSE: Lightning
CURRENT SIZE:  approximately 4500 acres burned. Acreage is expected to increase today due to weather conditions.
LOCATION: Township 63 N, Range 9 W, Sections 30, 31, 32: approximately 14 miles east of Ely (within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness) in the Pagami Creek area between the South Kawishiwi River, Clearwater Lake, and Lake One.
AGENCY: Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District
SMOKE CONDITIONS: Smoke may be heavy and wide spread depending on wind direction.
RESOURCES: The fire is now under the management of Type 2 Incident Management Team Hinds.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Phone (218) 365-3177
Internet:  www.inciweb.org/incident/2534

Pagami Creek Fire in BWCA Prompts Temporary Closures

2011-09-10T17:15:00.000-05:00

Unseasonably dry, warm conditions and low relative humidities yesterday allowed the Pagami Creek Fire to burn actively south of the Lakes One and Two area. The burn out operation conducted last weekend was successful in reducing the threat of the fire escaping the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) and threatening the Fernberg corridor to the north.

To provide for public safety the Superior National Forest is temporarily closing the following:

- As a precautionary measure Lakes Two and Three will be closed. [Note the Forest Service has clarified that travel will be allowed through Lakes Two and Three, but no overnight camping will be allowed there.] Visitors currently in that area will be contacted by public safety crews. Alternatives include returning to Lake One for those leaving the area before Monday. Visitors who will be in the Wilderness beyond Monday are asked to head east into Lake Four or beyond. People intending to visit Lake One are encouraged to find other plans or paddle on the Kawishiwi River.

- All campsites on Clearwater Lake

- The portage between Lake Two and Clearwater Lake

- The portage between Turtle Lake and Clearwater Lake - The portage between Camdre Lake and Clearwater Lake

- The Powwow Trail Public Safety crews will be contacting BWCAW visitors in affected areas to alert them of any safety concerns.

As the Pagami Creek Fire moves south it is continuing to provide resource management benefits such as preparing seed beds for pine regeneration and decreasing fuels for future wildfires. As the fire burns to the south it is reaching older burned areas. These earlier burns may function like fuel breaks and decrease the likelihood of the fire moving further south.

Paddlers are asked to avoid the fire area. People throughout northeastern Minnesota have been experiencing smoke from the Pagami Creek Fire. The increase in fire activity means an increase in smoke as well. The location of the smoke will be dependent on wind direction. Anyone with a history of cardiac or respiratory disease should be aware that visitors to the Lakes One, Two and Three area are likely to experience heavy smoke at times.

Persistent warm, dry conditions have raised the fire danger throughout the area. Visitors are reminded to be careful with all fire use and ensure that their campfires doused thoroughly until cool to the touch.

For additional information please call (218) 365-3177 or visit www.inciweb.org/incident/2534

A Win for Wild Horizons in the Wilderness

2011-09-01T11:52:00.001-05:00

When AT&T decided to build an exceptionally tall 450' cell tower at the top of a high ridge bordering the BWCAW, the nonprofit advocacy organization Friends of the Boundary Waters took action. For the most part, BWCAW horizons are unimpaired by signs of civilization. The Friends want to keep it that way. The new tower's flashing red light would be visible from many lakes deep in the Wilderness. The Friends attempted to persuade AT&T to build two shorter, and more typical, 199' cell towers that would provide coverage for the residences outside of the BWCAW without significantly impairing Boundary Waters viewscapes.

When AT&T failed to respond to the Friends' request, the Friends filed suit in Minnesota State Court claiming violation of Minnesota environmental laws.

We're happy to have supported the Friends in this effort to preserve the special wild horizons of the spectacular Boundary Waters. We're also proud to have served a small role in the lawsuit process. In January, I guided the expert surveyor on the case by dogsled to remote parts of the BWCAW. We traveled over frozen (and at times slush-covered) lakes and snow-covered portages to obtain special survey readings to present as evidence at trial.

The case went to trial this late spring and the judge recently made his ruling. The decision is a clear win for the Friends and the importance of wild horizons in the BWCAW. The ruling expressly prohibits the 450' tower.

The Judge's decision is worth the read, making a strong argument for the special value of wilderness. You can download the ruling (large 6 MB file) and read it for yourself.

The judge concludes that a 199-foot, unlighted tower, which he explicitly allowed in his ruling, would serve all the same residences outside of the BWCAW.The judge also discussed the significant impact the proposed tower would have had:"The scenic views and vistas from within the BWCAW are rare, unique, endangered and of great historical significance. This factor weighs very strongly against construction of the Proposed Tower."

You can support the Friends of the Boundary Waters and their efforts to protect our beloved part of the world by becoming a member and donating money. Without this important advocacy group, no other organization exists to effectively speak up for the Wilderness and the importance of preserving its wild character. Many challenges still face the Wilderness, including the threat of water pollution from new sulfide mining proposals at the edge of the Boundary Waters, and the Friends are the foremost watchdog providing good information and advocacy on these issues.

This photo was snapped recently by Ely Outfitting Company guests Nate and Linda Ferris on Quadga Lake in the BWCA. What a shame if such sunset views were impaired by a glaring red flashing light. Thankfully, committed professionals are working to protect these viewscapes.

Protect Collared Research Black Bears

2011-08-31T17:40:00.000-05:00

We are supporting an effort to encourage black bear hunters to not shoot collared research bears. The effort is called the Black Bear Hunters Jackpot and rewards bear hunters if no research bears are killed or injured during the black bear hunting season that begins this week. Although Minnesota law does not make it illegal to shoot a collared research black bear by licensed hunters, these research bears are extremely important to the future of understanding black bear behavior. Ely Outfitting Company and Boundary Waters Guide Service do not outfit or guide hunting trips, but we support responsible hunting practices as an important part of wildlife management. Please read below for more info on the jackpot.

An anonymous party is offering a Jackpot of $5000 to black bear hunters in Minnesota. The Jackpot is being offered in order to help protect the black bears being researched by Dr. Lynn Rogers of the National Bear Center and the Wildlife Research Institute in Ely, Minnesota. The benefactors are offering the prize to every hunter who has a valid black bear permit for the 2011 bear hunting season in bear hunting areas 22, 24, 25 and 31.

The drawing is intended to reward hunters for refraining from shooting the 8-20 radio collared research bears with or without brightly colored tape or ribbons attached to their collars, so that valuable data from those bears is not lost. The benefactors are hoping that if a hunter enters the drawing, they will be less likely to shoot a collared bear, because it would invalidate the drawing. They are also hopeful that every hunter who enters the drawing will ask their fellow hunters not to shoot the bears, and that they in turn will enter the drawing. The sponsors see this as a non-judgmental, simple, direct, and hopefully effective way to discourage shooting the research bears. It is not an effort to stop bear hunting in Minnesota, because the benefactors realize that hunting is a needed management tool, which is used to keep the number of bears in Minnesotain balance with both the carrying capacity and the human social acceptance capacity of the land.

To be eligible to win the Jackpot, hunters must send a copy of their permit to entry@bearhuntersjackpot.com or have their permit photographed by volunteers while they are in those hunting areas, before or during the 2011 bear hunting season. The volunteers will then enter the permits into the drawing. After the hunting season is over, the drawing will be held using a random number process and the winner will be sent a cashier’s check for $5000. However, the Jackpot will only be offered if none of the research bears are shot or wounded during the hunting season. The email addresses and names of the entrants will be held in confidence and will not be used for any other purpose than the drawing.

Bald Eagles in the BWCAW

2011-08-15T09:49:00.002-05:00

Nevada Smith and his family recently paddled up to Lac la Croix for a week. The guys were fishing and saw this bald eagle intently watching them. Eventually, after much successful fishing of their own, they watched as the bald eagle came soaring down, scooped a fish out of the water they had recently caught and landed back in its trees near their campsite. The guys continued to watch as it ate the small fish. There's nothing quite like a fresh fish meal, for people or for eagles. Thanks to Nevada for sharing his photos here on Boundary Waters Blogger!

A New BWCA Photo Video to Get You Excited About A Boundary Waters Canoe Trip

2011-07-25T11:46:00.000-05:00

How to Handle Heat in the Boundary Waters

2011-07-24T18:22:00.000-05:00

This is how we managed the scorching heat on trail in the BWCA this week.

Fishing Licenses Available Again

2011-07-21T10:02:00.004-05:00

As of this morning, the Minnesota government is back up and running. Fishing licenses are for sale again, both online and in person. Perfect time to plan your Boundary Waters vacation and do a little (or a lot!) of fishing!

Another Successful Women's Guided Canoe Trip in the Boundary Waters

2011-07-20T14:30:00.010-05:00

I just finished guiding a great group of three ladies in the Boundary Waters. These women have known each other for years. They were always a little jealous of their husbands' canoeing trips, and thought this could be their chance. We were out for three days, and enjoyed excellent, sunny weather. We were surprised to see a handful of other women's groups. It appears that more women are getting turned on to what the wilderness can offer. Some of those young women were part of a youth group out for eleven days (you go, girls!).

My three ladies proved themselves to be very quick learners, taking to the paddling and steering well. We portaged the couple of trails to our destination lake without too much trouble.

Roxanne and Jean had heard stories from their husbands, and put forth a great effort. Jean paddled like a rock star, and Roxanne kept us laughing. Sunn, originally from China, was a champ at carrying packs or the canoe. She kept us engaged with stories of her interesting childhood.

These ladies expressed feelings before the trip like many of our guided trip folks, feeling a little less than confident upon starting but inspired nonetheless. With a great attitude and plenty of teamwork, our group of four succeeded! These women had in mind taking it easy (can't beat a hammock in the shade!) and seeing what this wilderness area is all about.

This baby loon with its parents put a smile on all of our faces on our afternoon trip...

... as did this late-blooming wild iris we found hiding on a shady shoreline.

Women's Trips are a great way to get out there, be part of nature, get to know your friends better, meet new people, and find yourself in a new light. We are offering a Women's Group Trip this September 7-11. This trip is a perfect way to experience the Boundary Waters as comfortably as possible and meet other adventurous women. Cost is a very reasonable $620. More information can be found on our website here. We'd love to have you and your friends come along with us!

Newest Book on Dorothy Molter

2011-07-18T13:46:00.004-05:00

The authors behind the latest book on Dorothy Molter, the Root Beer Lady of Knife Lake in the BWCAW, are having a Book Release and Signing Party at the Dorothy Molter Museum. Come on out this Friday from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Blueberries are Ripening in the Boundary Waters

2011-07-17T15:54:00.002-05:00

I fixed my first batch of pancakes with fresh blueberries while camped on Crooked Lake in the BWCAW this week. Delicious taste of the North Woods!

What to do with your camping plans when the Minnesota state parks are closed for a government shutdown.

2011-07-04T10:14:00.002-05:00

When life hands you a lemon... make lemonade in the Boundary Waters! Enjoy the individual lemonade mix packets we outfit for BWCA canoe trips (shown above).

You can have an even better camping vacation during the Minnesota government shutdown by switching your plans to a camping and canoeing vacation in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness near Ely, Minnesota.

Because the BWCAW is federal, it is 100% open during the Minnesota government shutdown. If you'd planned to camp in a state park that is now closed, we can help you have an even better camping and canoeing vacation in the Boundary Waters. Even if it's last minute, we can talk you through some BWCAW options. And we have all the necessary gear and supplies for a successful BWCA trip!

More info at www.ElyOutfittingCompany.com.

Kids and Watercolor in the Boundary Waters

2011-07-02T07:51:00.007-05:00

Josie (age 10, from Wisconsin), painted these pictures while on a BWCA canoe trip this week with her younger brother and parents. Her savvy mom packed along a backpacking style watercolor kit for her kids.

Sure enough, they found plenty of subjects to paint. The above Bald Eagle perched contently at the top of a tree right in their campsite. The loon painted below also approached them. It came within about a paddle's length of their canoe - close enough to see the loon's deep red eyes and how big the birds really are.

Thanks to Josie for sharing her watercolors! And thanks to her whole family for joining Ely Outfitting Company for an outfitted canoe trip.

Dragonflies Emerging From Fourtown Lake in the BWCAW

2011-06-29T13:11:00.000-05:00

One of the great things about late spring and early summer in the Boundary Waters is the overwhelming sign of new life. It seems everywhere you look there are birds on nests or with young in tow, flowers cover the forest floor, and insects such as these dragonflies are emerging to a new life of flight.

We spotted a mass of hundreds of these dragonflies at the north end of Fourtown Lake in and around the reeds where the stream flows into the main lake. These dragonflies spent possibly several years underwater in a nymph stage. Then they crawled out of the water to a vertical surface - reads and blades of grass here. Although they are difficult to positively ID at this stage, this dragonfly may be a member of the Baskettails genus that are known for mass emergences, a brown abdomen, and yellowish spots on their sides. The below photo shows one of them back lit in the reads.

The larval case that the above dragonfly is clinging to contained all of the much larger adult dragonfly body and wings earlier in the day. It emerged from a break in the skin at the back of the head of the larval case, then pulled itself out, pumped blood into its wings to expand them, and waited for its wings to dry and its body to complete the metamorphosis.

Although this dragonfly didn't take flight during our lunch stop, we watched a similar dragonfly emerge in our earlier campsite on Lake Agnes, and luckily caught a glimpse of its first flight. The flight pattern looked erratic and dizzyingly loop-d-loop for the first twenty feet, and then it seemed to get the feel of flying and buzzed back into the woods.

After dragonflies take flight, the empty larval shell, such as the one below, clings to the plant, rock or occasional camp utensil bag until the wind or rain knocks them loose.

Potential Minnesota Government Shutdown May Effect Your Ability to Get a Fishing License for July BWCA Canoe Trips

2011-06-28T14:30:00.000-05:00

There is a lot of talk now that Minnesota government may "shut down" beginning on July 1 due to budget disagreements between the governor and legislature. We have received notice that fishing licenses may not be available for purchase if the Minnesota government shuts down. Therefore, we suggest that anyone with a BWCA canoe trip during the first half of July and still needing to purchase a Minnesota fishing license do so before July 1. The Minnesota DNR sells fishing licenses online at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/fishing/index.html?type=fishing. This link takes you to a page that looks like the above screen shot.

A Minnesota government shutdown does not directly effect the ability of visitors to receive their necessary BWCA permits and travel the BWCA because the BWCA is administered by the federal government. However, visitors planning to stay at Minnesota state parks before or after their BWCA trip may have their plans effected.

Also, visitors to the BWCA who bring their own canoe are required to have their canoe licensed either in the state where they reside, or if their state does not require canoe registration, then with the state of Minnesota. It appears that if the Minnesota state government shuts down, then Minnesota canoe registrations will also not be available. Of course, if you're getting canoes from an outfitter such as Ely Outfitting Company or Boundary Waters Guide Service, that is not an issue.

Turtles are Venturing into BWCA Campsites to Lay Eggs Now

2011-06-24T22:42:00.000-05:00

We found this snapping turtle in a BWCAW campsite on the Kawishiwi River recently. The snapping turtles and painted turtles are venturing onto land right now to dig holes and lay their eggs. We were surprised to see that this turtle had selected the area immediately adjacent to the campfire grate for its place to lay eggs. The same campsite had a painted turtle digging about fifteen feet on the other side of the fire grate. Snapping turtle eggs will hatch after two to three months.

Campsites Re-opened on Lake Three in BWCAW

2011-06-21T13:59:00.002-05:00

Three campsites that were closed due to the small 31-acre forest fire burning since June 12 have been reopened. The fire activity is low due to damp weather. Travel is still possible in all area throughout Lake Three and into Horseshoe Lake. Visitors approaching the burned area should use caution due to the danger of falling trees. In the narrow channel next to the burned island, visitors should be sure to stay as close to the green shore as possible.

Fire Update for Lake Three in BWCAW

2011-06-20T10:55:00.002-05:00

The small forest fire first spotted on June 12 on Lake Three remains at 31 acres in size. Some smoke may be visible in the Lake Three area. The fire activity is low due to damp weather. Visitors should stay at least 10 canoe lengths from the shore of the burn area. Roots may have burned and tall trees may topple without warning. In the narrow channel next to the burned island, paddlers should stay as close to the green shore as possible. Visitors may see or hear aircraft and fire crews. Visitors are continuing to travel throughout Lake Three. All portages are open, including the portage into Horseshoe Lake. Three campsites in the southern end of Lake Three may be re-opened soon.

Father and Son Boundary Waters Canoe Trip

2011-06-19T07:31:00.002-05:00

I spent a week in the BWCAW with Gary and his 18-year-old son, Blake, this month. As a young Boy Scout in 1970, Gary traveled the Boundary Waters. His youthful canoe trip experience really left a life-long impression on him. He wanted his son to have a similar opportunity to explore the wilderness as a young man.

We planned a significant travel route for the trip - one that would challenge them physically and include travel on a variety of small, medium, and large lakes. The trip launched at the Moose River North (Entry Point 16) landing, and ended six days, and fifty miles, later at the Mudro Lake entry point. One of the highlights of the route is spectacular Curtain Falls (below) on the international border.

June is a glorious time to be in the Boundary Waters. It is a time of much new growth and change. The symbol of change is similar to that of a young man transitioning from life at home to moving away for college.

One of the intriguing things about traveling at this time of year is that you see plants at all stages of development. Gary and Blake enjoyed learning about the various plants of the area. Depending on soil types and locations, we saw many plants at different stages of development. For example, we passed many Clintonia plants (below). We saw them just poking through the ground, at a stage of larger leaves, and also with their yellowish-green flowers. Later this summer the flower will be replaced by a blue berry.

Although the berry is not edible, the young leaves are edible and taste a lot like cucumber. Blake is a fan of the Survivor Man television show and enjoyed learning about edible wilderness plants, and eating them.

Another one of the interesting plants we saw at various stages of growth is the sarsaparilla plant. This is the "not poison ivy" plant. It is often confused with poison ivy because it has three leaves at the end of its stems. When it is young, the leaves have a reddish hue, and then they become green, and grow interesting spheres of flowers (below).

And the ferns ranged from the stage of youthful, unfurling fiddleheads to showing as fully opened.

We also saw a variety of spectacular wildflowers, including these bunchberry plants, now showing their white flowers....

...and these pink ladyslippers...

...and this columbine.

The trip involved a significant amount of portaging, and the related time for looking at the plants along the trail. But, we also spent a significant amount of time ramping up North Woods fishing skills, and wetting lines. Gary didn't catch a fish on the 1970 trip, and we were determined to improve on that this time around. We did. Blake pulled in this 18.5" lunker smallmouth bass on Iron Lake with a number 8 Rapala Shad Rap in perch color, and a trophy 27.5" walleye on Crooked Lake trolling another Rapala.

These deeper, larger lakes still held cold water temps of only about 54-55 degrees. The shallow bays and smaller lakes held warmer temps up to about 64 degrees. On the larger lakes, the smallmouth were deeper and not close to shore on their beds. The cold temps made for refreshing swims. Here are Gary and Blake at the north end of Friday Bay on Crooked Lake. The swim didn't last long.

In addition to the fish, we met some interesting critters. For example, we watched a muskrat swim under our canoe, and Blake went toe to toe with a grouse on a portage trail. Blake first thought the bird was going to attack him. She was in defender mode - defending her nest of eggs laid only a few feet off the portage trail between Bullet and Moosecamp Lakes.

We also paddled past this Canada Goose laying on her eggs atop an old beaver lodge.

A trip in the Boundary Waters is a special thing for parents to share with their children. A father-son experience, such as this one I had the privilege of guiding, can be a powerful and life-changing event. It can develop confidence and trust in one another, and provide a platform for continued sharing. It is certainly a life event that will be relived and retold at family events over the years to come.

Lake Three Fire Update for BWCAW

2011-06-16T18:09:00.003-05:00

The small wildfire burning on Lake Three has grown to 31 acres in size. No new changes otherwise: Smoke is still visible and the smell of smoke is widespread along the Fernberg Rd. The three campsites at the south end of Lake Three remain closed. Traveling between Lakes Two and Four is still possible, as is travel to Horseshoe Lake. Visitors still may hear or see aircraft and/or a public safety crew. The fire is still confined to two islands and continues to creep slowly.

Fire Update for BWCAW

2011-06-15T15:54:00.002-05:00

Courtesy USFS:
Lake Three, Horseshoe Island Fire Update – June 15, 2011

CURRENT SIZE: approximately 25 acres

SMOKE CONDITIONS: Smoke is visible in Lake Three general area. The smell of smoke is more widespread along the Fernberg Road area.

CLOSURES: Three campsites in the southern end of Lake Three are closed. Each campsite that is closed is posted. Information regarding the campsite closures will be posted at the Lake One and Snowbank Lake entry points.

Forest Service's Current Message: Visitors should stay clear of the two islands that are burning. All portages are open, including the portage into Horseshoe Lake. Visitors may see or hear aircraft and fire crews. A public safety crew may be in the area as well. Visitors are continuing to travel through the Lake Three area. The fire activity is low. Fire is still confined to two islands and continues to creep.

A second fire is also burning in the Boundary Waters:

There is a small fire on the north side of Crab Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, reported on June 14, 2011. The fire is less than a half acre and is being suppressed. Cause of the fire is under investigation.

Rain showers are forecast for tonight. Always make sure your campfire is completely out before leaving your campsite.

Fire on Lake Three in the BWCAW

2011-06-13T16:34:00.000-05:00

Courtesy USFS:

June 13, 2011 3:00 pm - A fire has been reported on an island in the southern area of Lake Three, Township 62N, Range 9W, Section 2. It is being evaluated by Forest Service pilots. Please let visitors know that the Forest Service is aware of the fire and that they should stay clear of that particular part of the lake. They may see or hear aircraft along with fire crews and a public safety crew. Smoke is visible. The entry point and portages will be posted with signs to let the public know about the fire. There are no closures at this time although people should not go on the island. We’ll provide more information when it is available in the form of a fact sheet.

"Northern Exposure" in Real Life: Moose in Ely

2011-06-03T16:46:00.006-05:00

Many might remember television's Northern Exposure, with its wandering moose in the opening credits. Ely has its own moose, seen earlier this week walking the streets of downtown. The yellowish sign in the background with the arched lettering is Britton's Cafe on Chapman Street in downtown. Photo by Amy Kireta.

Special BWCAW Bear Alert - Pipestone Bay near Back Bay Portage

2011-05-28T16:42:00.001-05:00

Two bears (a sow and her yearling) are habitually seeking food from campsites and portages in Pipestone Bay of Basswood Lake on the east side, near the Back Bay Portage. Safeguard your gear and food from bears. If a bear is persistent about coming to your campsite, you may want to move to another campsite. Remember bears are good swimmers.

"Paddle North: Canoeing the Boundary Waters-Quetico Wilderness" Wins Top Honors

2011-05-20T17:20:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to photographer Layne Kennedy and author Greg Breining. Their new book on our beautiful region received top honors in the General Nonfiction category at the NE Minnesota Book Awards last night.

We are exceptionally pleased to sponsor a Boundary Waters Photo Workshop with photographer Layne Kennedy on August 16-21, 2011. Space is still available. Click here for more information.

In addition to his award-winning photography skills, Layne is a gifted teacher, kind person, and fun companion on trail. Point and shoot newbies to professionals learn to take better photos while immersed in our special wilderness on the Photo Workshop.

We have copies of "Paddle North" at Ely Outfitting Company in Ely, MN. Feel free to stop in and browse through or buy a copy. They make great gifts for people who love the Boundary Waters.

What lure caught lake trout in the Boundary Waters this week?

2011-05-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

We sell only guide-recommended fishing tackle, such as this Dardevle Five of Diamonds shown above, at Ely Outfitting Company in Ely, MN. The lakers were hanging out in the transition from deeper water to about 17 feet deep.

Early Season Solo Boundary Waters Canoe Trip

2011-05-16T19:24:00.005-05:00

I enjoyed a five-day early May solo canoe trip this past week. The temperatures stayed pleasantly warm, even hot during the middle of the days (especially with my wool pants!). The Little Indian Sioux River flowed calmly north. After a few portages through Pawness Lakes, Shell and Little Shell, I enjoyed dinner on Lynx Lake, and portaged on over to Ruby to stay the night, arriving right at sundown.

Having seen a forecast of rain, I was pleased to find Day Two dawn sunny. On the mile-long portage from Hustler to Oyster, I spied lots of wolf traces, mostly scat. Clearly the wolves have been active up and down this trail all winter. Some people are surprised to realize that many wild animals use human trails. In fact, it's often the other way around for many paths. Animals are in the woods full-time and naturally pad around on easier paths, and so the humans traveling an area will often unknowingly track the same path kept open by deers, wolves, and moose.

I traveled past the newly-green grass along the Oyster River, and over to Agnes Lake, seeing lots of moose scat and tracks on the portage. Then it was up to Lac La Croix, where I camped across from Warrior Hill, a historical location where young native men ran to the top as a rite of passage. Clouds were moving in from the west as I went to bed.

Day Three dawned sunny again, despite the previous night's clouds and more rainy forecasts. My route took me across Iron Lake and past Curtain Falls onto Crooked Lake. The waterfall here is one of the most picturesque in the Boundary Waters, and it was brimming this spring.

The winds stayed unusually calm while I paddled along the largest part of the lake, past Sunday Bay and Saturday Bay. With the long vistas of this sizable lake, it is unusual not to see another canoe. Yet no one else was around --- I had the lake all to myself. I paddled into a head wind on Friday Bay and camped on a nice site on small Chippewa Lake.

Day Four I woke to raindrops on the tent, but fortunately the rain held off actually falling until the afternoon. On Niki Lake, before the first portage of the morning, I saw a large north-facing wall of white, which looked like a small greenhouse set up in the middle of the wilderness. It was so large, I couldn't believe it was actually icy snow. But indeed, as I got closer, I saw water running next to it, and saw it dripping as it slowly melted. I found it amazing that such a large bit of ice lasts well into the spring.

By mid-afternoon and a long portage, a fairly strong head wind had picked up, along with some precipitation. After skirting the shores, I decided not to fight it and instead waited it out at a protected spot on a campsite where I could keep an eye on the wind. I relaxed the whole evening there, and enjoyed some fresh-popped popcorn (a welcome, warm diversion on a rainy day!).

My last day, I headed out early in anticipation of wind. Several hours, and a few lakes and (challenging!) portages later, I landed on Mudro Lake and was back to my parked car before I knew it.

One of the most interesting aspects of this trip was using a SPOT (Satellite Personal Tracker). This easy little device allowed me to send an "OK" message to friends and family. It is a device without a screen and just four buttons. I simply turned it on and pressed the "OK" button, which then beamed a message with my latitude and longitude coordinates as well as my pre-recorded message to those on my contact list (and our Ely Outfitting Company Facebook page). This way, anyone could follow where I was located, and see what route I had been on so far. The SPOT offers two other two buttons for emergencies of different levels. The beauty of the SPOT is for the person in the woods, since the device is a fairly unobtrusive way to let folks know that you're ok and see where you are.

During those five days, I saw many loons, spooked many ducks and mergansers, and had a number of bald eagles watching over me. I saw a total of six other people over my five days, and according to Google earth, where my brother tracked my SPOT points, I traveled approximately 50 miles. I saw grass becoming greener and leaves as they started to bud out. For a solo trip in May, it proved to be ideal conditions in the woods.

Newton Portage Wildfire Update - No Visible Flames and No Smoke

2011-05-13T16:32:00.000-05:00

Newton Portage Wildfire Update from USFS

UPDATE: May 13, 2011
FIRE NAME: Newton Portage
DATE OF DETECTION: May 11, 2011
CAUSE: Lightning start discovered May 11, 2011
CURRENT SIZE: 2 cedar trees and some low flames on the surrounding ground
LOCATION: 100 yards east of the Fall Lake to Newton Lake portage at the most northern end Township: 63 Range: 11 Section: 34
AGENCY: Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District
STATUS: There are no visible flames and there is no more smoke on this fire. The fire did not carry far. It will be monitored until it is declared out. This will be the last update on this fire unless there is a significant change.
CLOSURES: none
SMOKE CONDITIONS: There is no smoke visible today.

Small Wildfire Near Newton Portage in the BWCAW Near Ely, MN

2011-05-11T11:44:00.000-05:00

USFS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UPDATE: May 11, 2011

FIRE NAME: Newton Portage

DATE OF DETECTION: May 11, 2011
CAUSE: Lightning start discovered May 11, 2011
CURRENT SIZE: 2 cedar trees and some low flames on the surrounding ground
LOCATION: 100 yards east of the Fall Lake to Newton Lake portage at the most northern end Township: 63 Range: 11 Section: 34
AGENCY: Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District
STATUS: We will be closely monitoring this fire
CLOSURES: none
SMOKE CONDITIONS: Smoke is visible on Fall and Newton Lakes

BWCAW Ice Conditions - Ice is Out on Ely Area Lakes

2011-05-09T13:17:00.000-05:00

As of May 8, 2011, the Forest Service reports that most all lakes in the Ely area are open. The full Forest Service report follows:

Overview: With few exceptions, roughly any lake that is of any size east of a line running south of Big
Saganaga Lake still has quite a lot of ice.

Lakes in LaCroix and Kawishiwi Districts: Most lakes are open including Basswood and Knife Lakes.

Lakes in Tofte and Gunflint Districts:

Open: Ogishkemuncie, Sea Gull, Little Saganaga, and the western half of Gunflint, Little Cascade; Sawbill; Perent, Isabella.

Some Ice: Tuscarora (floating scraps), Loon (south of Gunflint Lake) is mostly ice, Homer has scraps of ice.

All Ice: Cherokee, Frost, and Brule still have ice tight to the shore—and mostly any lake of any size east of these lakes ; Gabimichigami, Gillis, Cherokee, Winchell, Brule, Loon and Davis; Cascade, Tait, and Clara; South Temperance; Alton, Beth; Devil’s Track.

Couldn’t see: Dumbell and Silver Island Lakes.

Latest Report on BWCAW Ice Conditions

2011-05-06T08:51:00.000-05:00

Kawishiwi Area Ice Report as of 5/4/11 at 10:00 from USFS:

Main lakes with 50% ice:
Knife, Kekekabic, Ima, Thomas, Frazier, Alice, US Point area, Trout, Snowbank.

Main lakes that are open:
Moose chain, Birch, Carp, Ensign, Vera, Lake 1-4, Hudson, Insula, Most of Basswood/Bailey Bay/Jackfish/Pipestone, Vermilion, Burntside, Gabbro, Bald Eagle, S. Kawishiwi River.

No info on Lac La Croix

BWCAW Ice Conditions as of 3PM on May 2, 2011

2011-05-03T13:48:00.000-05:00

Boundary Waters ice conditions report from USFS pilots:

Open: Crooked, Horse, Fourtown, Basswood/Pipestone, Moose, Ensign, Lakes 1-4, Bald Eagle, Gabbro, So. Kawishiwi River.

Some Ice Still: Bailey Bay area of Basswood, Prairie Portage area of Basswood, Snowbank, Ima, Frasier, Thomas, Alice

Pussy Willows Welcome Spring Near Ely, MN

2011-05-02T08:18:00.000-05:00

Before the snow has fully dissipated in the wetlands, a furry white harbinger of spring appears on the willow trees. The snow-white and silver-gray pussy willows have emerged around Ely. The flowering catkins are said to have received their name from their resemblance to tiny furry pussy-cats.

I photographed these pussy willows near Ely this week. They were later weighted down by several inches of wet heavy snow that has since dissipated.

New Summer Hours at the USFS Kawishiwi Ranger District Office in Ely, MN

2011-05-01T06:00:00.006-05:00

The Kawishiwi Ranger Station on the edge of Ely has new hours for summer 2011. Beginning May 1, they are open for BWCAW permit issuing from 7AM - 4:30PM seven days per week. Last year they stayed open until 5PM, so be aware of that change if you have the old hours stuck in your head or smart phone.

Boundary Waters Guide Service is a Cooperator with the Kawishiwi Ranger District and can help you reserve your required BWCAW entry permit, and conveniently issue your permit at our building in Ely.

The new Kawishiwi Ranger District building has attractive displays with local and naturalist information and is worth a visit whether your permit is issued there or elsewhere.

Ice is Out on Shagawa Lake in Ely, Minnesota

2011-04-30T11:02:00.000-05:00

Ice is out on Shagawa Lake on the edge of Ely, MN, today! White Iron Lake is mostly ice free, but there's still a big sheet of center ice down by Silver Rapids. We're welcoming some guests from Florida for a canoe trip this week, so it's a good thing the hard water is going away!

Lake	Campsites Before Pagami	Campsites that will be available for the beginning of the 2012 season
One	12	12
Two	12	12
Three	17	12
Four	16	8
Hudson	12	3
Insula	46	33
Horseshoe	4	1
Brewis	1	0
North Wilder	2	0
South Wilder	2	0
Harbor	2	0
Clearwater	4	4
Gull	5	3
Pietro	4	3
Hudson Pond	1	0
Baskatong	2	0
Bog	4	1
Isabella Lake	11	7
Isabella River	8	2
Island River	3	0
Kawasachong	4	2
Quadga	4	0
Rice	2	0

Entry Point	Normal Quota	2012 Quota	Rationale
30 - Lake One	18	14	Quota will be 16 after several minimally impacted campsites are rehabilitated.
30F - Lake One Restricted	0	2	This is a new entry point for Lake One. Entry point 30F will include restrictions for no camping on Lakes One, Two, Three, Four, or Hudson at any time. This entry point will be eliminated when the quota for Entry Point 30 can be restored to 18.
34 - Island River	3	0	Island River is closed to overnight and day use going west towards Isabella River. The river is open to day use going south and east to Comfort Lake.
35 - Isabella Lake	3	1	Many campsites were impacted by the fire. The quota will increase after campsites have been rehabilitated in early 2012. Travel is prohibited west of Isabella Lake until we are sure the water route is navigable and portages have been stabilized to address erosion concerns.
67 - Bog Lake	2	0	Route is open to day use only.
75 - Little Isabella River	1	0	Little Isabella River is currently closed to all use because of trees across the portage and river. When trees have been cleared and resource concerns have been mitigated, the route will be open for day use.
86 - Pow wow Trail	Unlimited	0	Trail will remain closed until further notice.
84 - Snake River	1	1	Snake River is open but no travel is allowed east of Bald Eagle Lake on Isabella River until the route has been cleared. When route is cleared, travel and camping will be allowed.