Historic Fires Impact the Superior National Forest and Our Upcoming Projects

Historic fires are burning in northern Minnesota, impacting thousands of acres of public and private lands and closing portions of the Superior National Forest. Many homes and cabins have been destroyed, and countless emergency responders are working around the clock to limit the spread of the fires. Our hearts go out to all who are affected by these fires and we thank those who are working to contain them.

It’s likely that at least one of our upcoming projects will need to be postponed or cancelled due to these fires. Our first priority will always be the safety of our volunteers, and we will work with Forest Service staff to determine if and when it is safe to host projects near impacted areas.

While we don’t know what the next couple of weeks hold (hoping for lots of rain!), we have many projects this season still in need of volunteers, most of which are very far from any active fire zones. You can see our full schedule of projects on our website. First-time volunteers are welcome at our events and there are tasks for a wide range of abilities. Consider joining us to give back to the Superior National Forest.

Visit our Get Involved page to learn more and sign up for a future project.

New Name, Same Commitment to Stewardship and Conservation

We’re excited to announce that Northwoods Volunteer Connection is now Friends of the Superior National Forest—a name that better reflects our mission to support, protect, and enhance the Superior National Forest through volunteer stewardship and partnerships.

For years, we’ve engaged volunteers and partners in trail maintenance, conservation projects, and outdoor stewardship. As we continue to grow, this new name helps clarify our mission and strengthen our connection to the land and the community.

This change comes at a critical time. Recent budget cuts and mass layoffs within the U.S. Forest Service have drastically reduced resources for trail maintenance and conservation efforts, placing an even greater burden on volunteers and partner organizations. We're committed to helping bridge that gap, ensuring the forest remains accessible and well cared for despite these challenges.

“Our work has always been about the Superior National Forest—engaging people in caring for the trails, waters, and lands that make this place so special,” said our Executive Director, Jo Swanson. “With this new name, we’re embracing our identity as an organization dedicated to supporting and celebrating this incredible public land.”

To mark this new chapter, we’ll launch our updated website, social media presence, and branding on April 22, 2025 (Earth Day). The celebration continues with an in-person event on Saturday, May 17, at 10 AM at Pincushion Mountain Trailhead, where attendees can enjoy coffee donated by Java Moose, treats from Crosby Bakery, a door prize from Cook County Whole Foods Co-op, and a guided hike. It’ll be a great opportunity to connect with fellow supporters and learn more about what’s ahead for Friends of the Superior National Forest.

“Volunteers have always been at the heart of what we do,” said our Board Chair and retired Forest Service National Wilderness Program Manager, Sandy Skrien. “With the Forest Service facing major funding cuts, community involvement is more crucial than ever. By stepping up together, we can ensure the Superior National Forest remains a place for adventure, connection, and stewardship for generations to come.”

What’s ahead for Friends of the Superior National Forest:

• Expanded volunteer opportunities and hands-on conservation projects

• A new website and social media presence reflecting our updated name

• A stronger focus on public engagement and education

Project Spotlight: Invasive Species Removal

This July, we will host two events to remove invasive species in the Superior National Forest. Please join us!

Project 1: Pincushion Mountain Many people know and love Pincushion Mountain near Grand Marais. Just "up the hill" off the Gunflint Trail, it's a hub for cross-country skiing, biking, and hiking. The beloved Superior Hiking Trail passes through the trailhead, and the North Shore State Trail (primarily used as a snowmobile trail but open for many other uses) is adjacent to the trailhead. Plus, there's a stunning overlook of Lake Superior visible right from the parking lot!

We will spend two days in this area and volunteers are welcome to come for a morning, afternoon, or all-day shift. It's a great opportunity for families, first-time volunteers, and locals to come on out and be part of the stewardship effort!

Camping will be provided at a nearby US Forest Service campground for anyone needing a place to stay during the event.

To register, please fill out this form!

Project 2: Isabella

On July 25, we'll be hosting a project in an area heavily impacted by invasive species: an old environmental learning center site near the small community of Isabella. This is an interesting opportunity to see how land rebounds after human impacts. Hosted on a Friday, it's a great chance to give back before starting your weekend in the northwoods! You can also combine this event with our nearby project at South Kawishiwi River Campground on July 26 & 27!

Camping will be provided on Thursday night (the night before the event) at a nearby US Forest Service campground for any volunteers who wish to join us.

To register, sign up here!