Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Big Red Canoe - Friends of the Boundary Waters podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biking for the Boundary Waters | 11 Sep 2024 | 00:31:21 | |
Two adventurous cyclists embark on an epic journey from Minnesota to New York, pedaling around Lake Superior through Canada, all to support Friends of the Boundary Waters. One of the riders, Mike Quirk, joins us to tell tales from the trip. The ride was to take 30 days and cover almost 2000 miles. But like any true adventure - things didn’t quite go as planned. And before the trip was over, Mike found himself swapping out his bike for a canoe to cover some of the middle-Canada miles on the Ottawa River – then having more unexpected adventures before getting behind the handlebars again to finish the ride to New York. Inspired by their dedication? You can make a difference too! If you have a unique fundraising idea to support the Friends, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us to learn how you can help protect the BWCA. Together, let’s ensure this incredible wilderness remains pristine for generations to come. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Reel Talk! Boundary Waters and Quetico Fishing with Stu Osthoff | 03 Aug 2024 | 00:49:11 | |
Anglers shouldn't miss this Boundary Waters fishing podcast! Whether you’re a seasoned Boundary Waters angler or dreaming of your first BWCAW adventure, this is a rare opportunity to learn from one of the true experts. Expert tips on how to catch BWCA Lake Trout, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike In this engaging conversation, Boundary Waters Journal publisher and BWCA and Quetico fishing guide, Stu Osthoff will share his vast knowledge and insider tips for catching the “Grand Slam” of canoe country fishing – lake trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. He’ll reveal the best times, lures, tactics and hotspot lakes for targeting these legendary species. Stu is a passionate advocate for wilderness values like solitude, adventure and connecting with nature through fishing. And he discusses how to transcend an ordinary canoe trip by embracing the challenge and breathtaking beauty of backcountry angling in this unspoiled wilderness. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| BWCA Hiking - Shining Star of the North Country Trail | 03 Jun 2023 | 00:37:51 | |
The trails of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area offer endless possibilities, and you're sure to find a sense of awe and wonder around every corner. And some Boundary Waters trails connect to an even larger network of trails called the North Country Scenic Trail; a footpath stretching over 4,600 miles from the west side of the Missouri river and North Dakota, all the way to the Appalachian trail in Vermont. On this episode, we're joined by Matthew Davis NCTA regional trail coordinator, who gives us an overview of how these unique BWCA trails fit into the larger national trail system. Plus - he describes hiking in the BWCA, and how it differs from canoeing. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Working Like a Dog in the BWCA | 17 May 2023 | 00:40:16 | |
The ice is now out on the Lakes in the Boundary Waters, and we’re embracing the promise of the spring season. But for those who live and work near the Boundary Waters, they’ve been straddling seasons for months, spending time in the winter season to prepare for summer. In this Big Red Canoe podcast episode, we meet Joe Friedmeyer, a U.S. Forest Service sled dog musher, who has been using the ice and snow of the harsh winter to help get things ready for summer travelers to America’s most visited wilderness. We talk to Joe about working with a sled dog team to backhaul lumber from the Rose/Duncan Lake stairway project, completed in 2022, as well as hauling fire grates, latrines, and winter patrols across the ice. Joe also highlights best "Leave No Trace" practices for winter. It's a great introduction to unseen work that happens in the winter, in the BWCA. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| In Search of the BWCA Monster | 20 Apr 2023 | 00:25:45 | |
Are there monsters, ghosts, or even more creepy things lurking in the BWCA? In this episode, we'll hear your stories from a contest when St. Paul-based Lake Monster Brewing teamed up with Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness to create a new Minnesota legend. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Clearing the Way with Michelle Kwan | 30 Mar 2023 | 00:47:55 | |
When many of us think of the Boundary Waters, we think about paddling and portaging. But there area number of ways to experience the Wilderness, including recreational hiking. In this episode, we meet Michelle Kwan, who went on her first Boundary Waters trip in an even more unique way - as a volunteer doing trail clearing work. After participating on several trips and recruiting several people to join her, Michelle is now leader her own trail clearing trips. She wants to continue to develop her skills, - including creating unique, flavorful Asian-inspired camping meals, and continuing her work to guide more people and inspire them to venture out to wild places. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Ashley Bredemus - Living at the Edge of the Wilderness | 17 Mar 2023 | 00:37:12 | |
Those who have traveled in the Boundary Waters are often drawn to the wilderness, and they may have wondered what it might be like to live immersed in the wilderness. Ashley Bredemus, owner and co director of Birchwood Wilderness Camp, has spent much of her life living near the Boundary Waters past the end of the Gunflint Trail. Ashley gives us a glimpse of what it's like to be in the wilderness full time, and how it's different from enjoying it recreationally. She describes some of the joys, the challenges, even simple things like water and heat that many of us take for granted, and how someone who lives in the north woods of Minnesota connects with wilderness on a daily basis. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| MN Attorney General Keith Ellison | 19 Sep 2022 | 00:57:45 | |
We're joined by special guest, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. While you may know him through his public service roles, you may not know that Attorney General Ellison has a deep love of the Boundary Waters and has led wilderness canoe trips for teenagers. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| 10 Mistakes I’ve Made in the BWCA (So you don’t have to) | 03 Jun 2022 | 00:56:27 | |
When exploring the Boundary Waters, you’re bound to make a mistake or two. Our guest Tiger Beaudoin knows this first hand. He’s guided first-timers, grandparents, parents with children, and paddled solo across our favorite wilderness for years. He’s also made more than a few mistakes. In this fast-paced presentation, he’ll describe 10 lessons learned “the hard way” while paddling hundreds of miles and portaging thousands of rods in the BWCA and Quetico. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| World Water Day - Protecting Clean Water in Minnesota | 15 Apr 2022 | 00:58:55 | |
In this informative World Water Day discussion, we celebrate and discuss the threats, and ways that we can fight for clean water. We’ll also discuss a water report we just published that assesses six major water threats to the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and provides policy recommendations that, if adopted, would help to ensure that all Minnesotans have access to clean water for decades to come. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| BWCA Winter Camping Tips and Tricks | 25 Feb 2022 | 00:58:33 | |
February in Minnesota is a perfect time to plan your winter Boundary Waters adventure. Some of the best winter camping happens from now through March— with the right layers and the right precautions, winter can be a great time for a peaceful, quiet, mosquito-free adventure. On this podcast, BWCA expert and author Dan Pauly shares his tips for staying warm and dry, and discuss gear and how to keep yourself safe. Join us for this podcast to learn how to start preparing for your trip! Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Twin Metals Leases Canceled! | 12 Feb 2022 | 01:02:55 | |
Join the Friends of the Boundary Waters staff as they react to the HUGE news of Twin Metals' canceled mineral leases, and a halt to the mining project near the Boundary Waters. We also discuss how the lease cancellation relates to other steps by the federal government, including a 20-year moratorium on mining at the edge of the Boundary Waters. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| An Outfitter's High Water Tales | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:15:01 | |
In this episode, we dive into the unexpected high water conditions in the Boundary Waters this season. After a dry winter, Northeastern Minnesota faced a surprisingly wet spring and early summer, culminating in a major storm on June 18th that caused flash flooding and damage across the Superior National Forest. We sit down with Ginny Nelson from Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters in Ely to discuss how these conditions have affected outfitters and Boundary Waters visitors. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Children’s books of the Boundary Waters and northern Minnesota | 20 Dec 2021 | 00:59:08 | |
The northland has inspired some incredible children’s books that can plant that seed of adventure in a young person’s heart. We talk to four Minnesota authors and illustrators for a discussion on children’s books related to the Boundary Waters and northern Minnesota. They preview what they have created for the youngest BWCA lovers, and share their own history with the Boundary Waters, and insight into their creative process. You might discover something for yourself, and learn about books to spark a child’s imagination. Guests: Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Climate Change and the Future of the Boundary Waters | 15 Dec 2021 | 00:56:19 | |
How will climate change affect northeastern Minnesota? Dr. Lee Frelich discusses how ecological changes brought on by forest succession, species migration and warming waters will drastically transform the Boundary Waters. If you want to know what climate change will do to the wildlife, trees and vegetation of the BWCA, don’t miss this special episode. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information, resources and a video of this presentation. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Climate Change and Global Public Health | 08 Dec 2021 | 00:56:41 | |
Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue, it’s a public health issue. Human health and the health of the natural world are intricately linked together. Understanding these connections is increasingly important. Dr. Bill Rom, originally from Ely, Minnesota and now a research scientist at New York University’s School of Public Health, discusses impacts that extreme weather, wildfires, and other climate-related disasters have on human health. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| The Climate Impact of Proposed PolyMet and Twin Metals Mines | 17 Nov 2021 | 00:56:12 | |
Coinciding with the 2021 Glasgow Summit, we'll look at how climate change will affect the Boundary Waters and the broader ecosystem of northeastern Minnesota. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| PolyMet Back in Court: The fight for Minnesota’s clean water | 29 Oct 2021 | 00:54:06 | |
Proposed copper-sulfide mining in northern Minnesota threatens some of the cleanest water in the country, including the Boundary Waters and Lake Superior. Over the past year, Friends of the Boundary Waters and our partners have won important legal challenges against PolyMet’s proposed toxic copper sulfide mine, which threatens to pollute Lake Superior. In October 2021, PolyMet was back in court, before the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Friends’ Board Member Evan Nelson, an attorney at Maslon LLP, will provide a special look at the important wastewater permit before the court and where this case will go from here. Evan breaks down the legal arguments from Friends of the Boundary Waters and its partners Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, WaterLegacy, and the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa who are also involved in this case. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information, resources and a video of this conversation. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| The Latest Move in the Fight for Clean Water in the BWCA | 22 Oct 2021 | 00:47:24 | |
The Biden administration recently announced it was requesting a 20-year ban on copper-sulfide mining on 225,000 acres of federal land surrounding the Boundary Waters. How will this impact conservation movement in the area and the future of America’s most popular Wilderness Area. We’ll hear directly from our legal experts, who offer background information on this important development in the fight for clean water that could potentially stop the proposed Twin Metals’ toxic mine near the Boundary Waters. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information, resources and a video of this conversation. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Indigenous leaders Senator Mary Kunesh and Representative Heather Keeler | 15 Oct 2021 | 00:57:25 | |
Explore the link between clean water, the Boundary Waters, and Native American issues in this timely episode. Minnesota Senator Mary Kunesh and Representative Heather Keeler join Friends Executive Director Chris Knopf to talk about Indigenous Peoples' Day, clean water, and their experiences as Native women in the Minnesota legislature. Senator Kunesh has been in the legislature since 2016 and was a founding member of the Native American and People of Color & Indigenous (POCI) caucuses. Representative Keeler joined the legislature in 2021 and has a background in activism and fighting for the Native American community in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information, resources and a video of this conversation. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Last Entry Point - An Unforgiving Wilderness, with Joe Friedrichs | 23 May 2024 | 00:52:16 | |
"The same thing that makes you live can kill you in the end." - Neil Young Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| From Boundary Waters to Bayou - Mississippi Journeys with Devin Brown & Cory Maria Dack | 26 Apr 2024 | 00:48:05 | |
On this episode of the Big Red Canoe podcast, we're joined by Devin Brown and Cory Maria Dack to discuss their remarkable paddling journeys down the Mississippi River. Devin Brown is preparing to become the first Black woman on record to solo kayak the entire length of the Mississippi River, from its source in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Her trip planned for 2024 is driven by a dream over a decade in the making - to find healing and connection for self, and to connect with African American history along the Missisippi. Cory Maria Dack might be Devin's biggest cheerleader. She has already accomplished the incredible feat of paddling the Mississippi River in a canoe in 2022. And she brings her experience of a relationship with the land, water, and people along the way while increasing representation of diverse identities on the river. As Devin and Cory share their powerful stories, we learn about their experiences as paddlers and the survival trips of navigating the river and its communal network of River Angels that will help make Devin's upcoming solo journey a success. Their conversation touches on themes of healing, nature connection, ancestral history, and being a role model for future generations. You'll leave this podcast knowing more about what it takes to travel on such a monumental paddle, the logistics and community support required, and the physical and emotional journeys represented by descending this iconic American river.
Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Gunflint Falling - Stories from the 1999 BWCA Blowdown | 22 Mar 2024 | 00:48:34 | |
On July 4, 1999, in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), a bizarre confluence of meteorological events resulted in the most damaging blowdown in the region’s history. Originating over the Dakotas, the midsummer windstorm developed amid unusually high heat and water-saturated forests and moved steadily east, bearing down on Fargo, North Dakota, and damaging land as it crossed the Minnesota border. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode, and https://www.carygriffith.com for more information on his other books, and how to buy a copy of Gunflint Falling. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Guardians of the Boundary Waters - The story of the 1978 BWCA Wilderness Act | 11 Nov 2023 | 01:00:00 | |
We revisit the fascinating story of the legislative and political battles leading up to the Boundary Waters Wilderness Protection Act of 1978 by talking to three of the individuals who shaped it and fought for its passage: Chuck Dayton, Jan Green, and Kevin Proescholdt. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Game Changing Gear with Darren Bush | 08 Sep 2023 | 00:58:26 | |
Deciding what gear to use for Boundary Waters trips can be overwhelming. Cutting-edge, ultra-lightweight, indestructible, weatherproof gear can make a big difference, but the newest and coolest gear might not always be the best gear for you - or your budget. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| 25 Tips for a Better Boundary Waters Trip | 14 Jul 2023 | 00:56:08 | |
How could you make your Boundary Waters trip even better? Check out these 25 tips, that cover all aspects of a BWCA canoe trip. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Best-Selling BWCA Author - William Kent Krueger | 17 Jun 2023 | 00:55:22 | |
If you love the Boundary Waters and literature, you're not going to want to miss this very special podcast. We're joined by New York times bestselling author, William Kent Krueger, who writes a series of mysteries set in the north woods of Minnesota. The protagonist of many of Krueger's novels, Cork O'Connor is the former sheriff of Tamarack county and is part Irish and part Ojibwe. In his books, Krueger explores the tensions within these cultures and examines important social topics that reflect real life. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Dark Sky Photography with Marc Rassel | 08 Feb 2025 | 00:46:18 | |
Discover the mesmerizing world of dark sky photography with renowned astrophotographer Marc Rassel as he shares expert tips, memorable stories, and essential techniques for capturing the night sky. From the pristine dark skies of Minnesota's Boundary Waters to international stargazing destinations, Marc reveals how to create stunning images of the Milky Way, aurora, and other celestial wonders. Marc also describes the growing challenge of light pollution and how photographers can help preserve our vanishing dark skies. Whether you're a complete beginner with just a smartphone or an experienced photographer looking to refine your nighttime techniques, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration for anyone interested in photographing the stars. Follow Marc Rassel on Instagram at @marcrasselphoto and connect with him at marcrasselphoto.com. This podcast is part of Boreal Stargazing week, February 10-17, 2025. Embrace the winter darkness and discover the magic of Minnesota’s starbright skies! Join us for a week of free activities for students, families, and friends that will immerse you in learning and stargazing. These free events are friendly for all ages and feature captivating night sky tours, snowshoe hikes, live conversations with astronomers, and more! Find more information at Friends-BWCA.org/stargazing Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Winter Camping with Kids | 10 Jan 2025 | 00:58:51 | |
Want to introduce your kids to winter camping but not sure where to start? Join us as we chat with Anthony Quill, an adventurous Minnesota Dad who's mastered the art of getting his young children excited about camping in Minnesota's winter wonderland. Anthony shares how his family transitioned from international living to embracing the frozen wilderness, starting with backyard adventures and working their way up to dog sledding expeditions and hot tent camping near the Boundary Waters. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| What does the 2024 Election mean for the Boundary Waters? | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:34:57 | |
How might the recent election results impact the future of Minnesota's cherished wilderness? In this timely episode, Steve Schultz, Government Relations Manager at Friends of the Boundary Waters, examines the shifting political landscape and its implications for the Boundary Waters. The discussion explores both federal and state-level changes, with particular focus on proposed legislation that could affect mining restrictions near this pristine area. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Schultz outlines practical ways citizens can help protect the wilderness, from grassroots activism to engaging with elected officials, along with a broader reflection on why the Boundary Waters matter and the importance of preserving this unique wilderness for future generations. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Boundary Waters Protection with Senator Tina Smith | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:20:57 | |
The Boundary Waters faces one of its greatest threats in decades. Hidden in the latest reconciliation bill is a dangerous provision that would hand hundreds of thousands of acres near the BWCA to toxic copper-sulfide mining companies—while blocking any legal challenges. This reckless giveaway threatens to bring industrial mining right to the doorstep of America’s most pristine wilderness, risking irreversible damage to our clean water and wild places. Senator Tina Smith is fighting back with legislation to stop this attack on our public lands. She joins us for a critical conversation about what’s at stake and how we can defend the Boundary Waters together. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Pushing the River with Frank Bures | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:57:17 | |
Author Frank Bures joins us on the podcast to discuss his compelling new book, Pushing the River: An Epic Battle, a Lost History, a Near Death, and Other True Canoeing Stories. Frank shares riveting tales from a century of canoe racing, including the forgotten history of the Paul Bunyan Canoe Derby—a grueling 450-mile race on the Upper Mississippi that changed modern canoeing forever. The conversation takes a personal turn as Frank recounts his own harrowing rescue on the Mississippi and other contemporary stories of adventure and survival, including the terrifying escape of two kayakers from the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire in the Boundary Waters. Learn More about the Book and Author at FrankBures.com Dave and Frank explore our essential connection to natural spaces and the urgent need to protect these environments in today's political landscape, whether it be the Boundary Waters or the mighty Mississippi River. Drawing from his background as a former trips director and camp naturalist at YMCA Camp Olson, as well as his experience supporting Guinness World Record paddling teams on the Mississippi, Frank offers unique insights into the transformative power of river journeys. Support the Friends of the Boundary Waters' Open Water Spring Fundraiser and have your gift doubled with generous match! Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Bear Safety in the Boundary Waters: Life-Saving Lessons from a Bear Attack Survivor | 18 Jul 2025 | 01:05:41 | |
Proper food storage and bear-aware camping practices aren't just recommendations—they're life-saving skills that every Boundary Waters visitor needs to master. Alex Messenger learned this lesson the hard way when a 600-pound grizzly bear nearly killed him during a remote Canadian wilderness expedition, an experience that transformed him into one of the region's most passionate advocates for bear safety and wilderness preparedness. At 17 years old, Alex was living every wilderness enthusiast's dream—42 days paddling through the remote Canadian tundra, hundreds of miles from civilization. But on day 29 of what should have been the adventure of a lifetime, that dream became a nightmare when he found himself face-to-face with an apex predator, armed with nothing but a camera case and his wits. The harrowing attack, which he details in his memoir "The 29th Day," offers more than just a gripping survival story—it provides crucial insights into bear and human behavior, wilderness medicine, and the split-second decisions that can mean the difference between life and death in bear country. 15:00 Alex describes the bear attack detailed in his book "The Twinty-Ninth Day" 46:00 Bears in the Boundary Waters, solo camping, Food safety, Bear safety tips You can order The Twenty-Ninth Day from Blackstone Publishing, or your favorite purveyor of fine books. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||
| Boundary Waters Cooking and Contemplation with Chef JD Fratzke | 20 Sep 2025 | 00:46:06 | |
Join us for an inspiring conversation with JD Fratzke, a celebrated chef and author who served as a judge and mentor on Bravo's Top Chef and brings a unique perspective to Boundary waters cooking. JD finds profound inspiration in Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, where he combines his fine dining expertise with camp cooking over open fires. From Professional Kitchens to Campfire Cuisine Wilderness cooking plays a big role as JD's meditative reset from high-pressure restaurant kitchens. He shares practical camp cooking tips including essential spice combinations (curry powder and Montreal steak seasoning), fresh ingredients that travel well, and his approach to boundary waters recipes that embrace simplicity while delivering extraordinary flavor. Hear about his famous lentil stew recipe, Campfire Pintos ‘Charros’, creative Lake Trout and Crayfish Tacos made with fresh-caught fish, and why he believes cooking over fire connects us to our most primal human experiences. JD reveals the difference between solo and group boundary waters camping meals, plus rookie mistakes to avoid when cooking in the wilderness. Beyond cooking, JD is a published poet whose works River Language and Dharma Butcher explore the intersection of wilderness, food, and human experience. He reads us his moving poem "Aurora," inspired by the Northern Lights over the boundary waters. His passion for protecting this sacred wilderness as a place of healing and transformation shines throughout our conversation. For Outdoor enthusiasts, cooking lovers, and anyone interested in boundary waters recipes, camp cooking techniques, and the deeper connections between food, nature, and creative expression. Read more Recipes and Articles from JD Fratzke on Friends-BWCA.org Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. | |||