Past Projects
A look back at the stewardship projects that have helped protect trails, campsites, and wilderness across the forest.
Since our founding in 2014, Friends of the Superior National Forest (formerly Northwoods Volunteer Connection) has engaged volunteers in meaningful stewardship projects throughout the forest. Over the years, we’ve restored trails, improved access to public lands, and built a strong community of forest advocates.
2014-2019
In our early years, we focused on building partnerships, launching volunteer programs, and responding to growing stewardship needs across the forest.
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Multi-day crews cleared trails, restored portages, and stabilized eroded sections.
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We started an Entry Point Adopter program to support regular trail and site monitoring.
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Volunteers contributed to invasive species removal and native plant restoration projects.
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These early efforts laid the groundwork for future impact.
2020
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we adapted our work while continuing to serve the forest and community:
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Volunteers helped assemble over 3,800 face shields for emergency responders.
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Trail crews built 132 feet of boardwalk and cleared over 8 miles of trail.
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26 volunteers participated in small-group projects throughout the summer and fall.
2021
Our momentum continued with on-the-ground stewardship and monitoring efforts:
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11 projects were completed including work on the Banadad Trail, Sioux-Hustler Trail, Rose-Rove Lake Portage, Kekekabic Trail, and Hobo Lake Trail.
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Over 16 miles of trail were improved.
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165 trees were planted.
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64 volunteers were engaged in 544 hours of public lands stewardship.
2022-2023
During this period, the organization was paused, with limited programming and volunteer activity. While few formal projects were completed, this time allowed us to reflect, reorganize, and prepare for a renewed chapter of stewardship beginning in 2024.