As a Minnesotan, I know we share a deep pride in the state’s northern forests and lakes, especially the iconic Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s more than a profoundly beautiful landscape; it’s a source of joy, adventure, and heritage for families like mine and countless others. Seventy percent of Minnesotans—across all political views—believe the Boundary Waters deserves permanent protection from copper mining proposed in its headwaters.
Unfortunately, it’s at risk more than ever before. I have serious concerns about the impact of Donald Trump’s second presidency on this national treasure. During his first term, we saw the rapid dismantling of safeguards for the Boundary Waters. Save the Boundary Waters stood strong then, defending every inch of this land and water during years of relentless attacks. Now, they are more prepared than ever, with robust strategies to protect our Wilderness from harm. But they can’t do it alone—they need you and me with them.
Trump is laser-focused on the Boundary Waters. In fact, Project 2025, the "battle plan" for the first 180 days of his presidency, mentions Minnesota only two times and both are about explicitly opening up the Boundary Waters watershed to copper mining. Imagine Minnesota’s most treasured Wilderness poisoned by toxic runoff—a future we cannot afford to risk.
If we lose the Boundary Waters to toxic mining, there is no undoing the damage. Let’s act decisively to protect the waters, the wildlife, and the memories we hold dear.
