About Us
We’re dedicated to caring for the Superior National Forest through volunteer stewardship, meaningful partnerships, and a deep connection to the land.
Friends of the Superior National Forest is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to volunteer-powered stewardship of the Superior National Forest. We work with individuals, groups, and partner organizations to maintain trails, clean campsites, and restore natural areas throughout the Forest’s three million acres—including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Through hands-on projects, we help sustain and enhance this treasured landscape for recreation, conservation, and cultural connection.
Founded in 2014 as Northwoods Volunteer Connection, our organization began with a small group of committed individuals—including a canoe outfitter, a retired Forest Service District Ranger, and a Forest Service staff member—who recognized the need for a coordinated volunteer effort in the Superior National Forest. Since then, we’ve mobilized volunteers to tackle critical on-the-ground projects, often filling gaps in capacity that the U.S. Forest Service cannot address alone. Our volunteers have contributed thousands of hours toward trail maintenance, campsite restoration, and conservation work—building a culture of shared responsibility for public lands.
In 2025, we became Friends of the Superior National Forest to better reflect our deep connection to the land and our growing role as a key partner to the Forest Service. The new name strengthens our ability to engage volunteers, partners, and supporters—while staying rooted in our mission to preserve and care for the forest for future generations. As our community of stewards continues to grow, we remain committed to fostering meaningful connections between people and this extraordinary place.
Mission
To provide stewardship of the Superior National Forest by engaging volunteers and partner organizations in recreation and natural resource projects.
Vision
A community of volunteers connected to and dedicated to the stewardship of our natural environment.
Key Strategies
Increase volunteer engagement in forest stewardship
Enhance and maintain trails and access to public lands
Deepen cultural and personal connections to the land
Support the health and resilience of forest ecosystems
Expand opportunities for hands-on stewardship
Encourage a passion for caring for the land
We believe that the Superior National Forest — and all public lands — are stronger and more resilient when everyone feels welcome and has the opportunity to take part in stewardship.
Friends of the Superior National Forest is committed to creating connections to the Superior National Forest for those with barriers to public lands. We engage volunteers from the many communities surrounding the Forest, working to build lasting relationships with individuals who may not have had these opportunities in the past. Friends of the Superior National Forest focuses on reaching out to and involving residents of the Iron Range and the urban communities of Duluth through partnerships and ongoing outreach efforts, recognizing that a broader and more engaged community strengthens the future of the Forest for all.