Laura & Marie Save the BWCA!

We're fundraising for the Love of the Boundary Waters, partnering with Save the Boundary Waters as we run the Twin Cities 10 mile in October 2026!

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a 1.1 million-acre haven of lakes, rivers, and forests along the Minnesota-Canada border — one of the most critical regions for climate resiliency. Protected for over a century, it holds 20% of all the freshwater in the National Forest System. With 1,100 lakes and 237 miles of hiking trails, it’s a place where millions reconnect with nature, from paddling to hiking to just soaking in the quiet. The Boundary Waters is one of the last truly wild places left — and it needs protection now more than ever.

Toxic sulfide-ore copper mining has been proposed just upstream of the Boundary Waters. This type of mining is known as one of the most polluting industries in the U.S., and if it’s allowed to happen here, it could permanently harm the clean water, wildlife, and sense of wild we all treasure. Once the damage is done, there’s no going back.

That’s why we're raising money to help protect the Boundary Waters — not just for us, but for everyone who loves it now and in the future. The funds I raise will support legal action, advocacy, and grassroots organizing to fight back against mining threats and push for permanent protections.

If you’ve ever dipped a paddle in this place, heard the echo of a loon call, or just believe in protecting our public lands — I hope you’ll consider making a donation.

Let’s keep the Boundary Waters wild, for the love of the Boundary Waters.

The Boundary Waters is home to loons, eagles, moose, wolves, and countless other species, along with forests, lakes, and plants that keep the ecosystem healthy. Protecting it isn’t just about keeping it beautiful. It’s about making sure wildlife and plants can keep thriving and that future generations can experience the same quiet, wild places we love.

I’m lucky enough to work for Friends of the Boundary Waters, which makes this fundraiser really meaningful. This Give to the Max Day, your donation will be matched up to $300,000, doubling your impact.

Your gift will help:

• Stop toxic mining before it harms lakes, rivers, and wildlife

• Protect forests, plants, and animals so the ecosystem can thrive

• Bring kids into the wilderness through youth programs and trips

• Monitor threats on the ground to keep the Boundary Waters wild

If you care about clean water, wildlife, wild places, or giving kids a chance to experience nature, please consider donating today. Let’s keep the Boundary Waters wild and healthy for all living things and generations to come.