I've been out of the loop with the BWCA for a while now. I am taking a trip again this fall after 5 years of not going. So I am wondering if there might be any rule changes. Like I think something about food has changed... ??

Thanks

Dogs need to be leashed at portages I think is new.

Food storage has gone back and forth. I finished my last trip on 8/19 and at that time food storage was the same as it was 5 years ago. At least according to my experience at the Kiwishiwi FS station. There have been a couple of times where only bear certified containers could be use (or hang) but that was specific areas or specific years.

T

Not specific rule changes but changes to what the rangers have been emphasizing during permit pickup this year. At least in the eastern BW, they have been recommending Not ever leaving food packs unattended on portages (due to increased activity of pack stealing by a couple different bears). They are not requiring bear containers are are doing a lot of education to encourage more responsible food storage techniques since problem bears are becoming bolder. They also are clarifying that "no motors" includes the banning of electric mini-chainsaws which apparently have been increasing in popularity, and reminding people that drones are not allowed since they have seen an increase in those as well. Also note that there are many more rangers out in the field this year, checking permits, campsites, etc. I have been checked on 2 of my 3 trips this summer. They have a lot more volunteers this year traveling as a partner to the ranger...including our very own LindenTree who I met on South Lake...so they are able to spread the rangers out more.

Food storage has gone back and forth. I finished my last trip on 8/19 and at that time food storage was the same as it was 5 years ago. At least according to my experience at the Kiwishiwy FS station. There have been a couple of times where only bear certified containers could be use (or hang) but that was specific areas or specific years.
T"

Per my understanding, unless the order (fseprd935981) has been revoked or replaced in some fashion, the ‘food storage’ order is virtually impossible to legally comply with.

From the order:
““Food” means any nourishing substance, solid or liquid (excluding baled hay or water) or refuse thereof, that is not native to the immediate area, which is or may be eaten or otherwise taken into the body to sustain life, provide energy, or promote growth of any person or animal.”
&
““Other Attractant” means an odoriferous item capable of attracting bears and other wildlife (e.g. toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, sunscreen, fishing bait, insect repellent, perfumes, and cooking spray)”

Legally speaking, the order covers any organic material (have any leather on your pack or shoes? They have to be hung according to this order…). Imho, it is the duty of free people to reject such rules which are so draconian.

I’m sure those ‘approved bear resistant container’ manufacturers were popping bottles of champagne when this ridiculous order was signed & I’d bet they lobbied for it as well.

The food storage order has been revoked twice and is not in effect currently

timatkn: "The food storage order has been revoked twice and is not in effect currently"

Oh, I was not aware of this revocation, thank you for the correction!

Glad to hear you are heading back!! Be safe and enjoy.

Nojobro.
Glad to see you’re making a comeback. Have fun!

Not much different, Nojobro - they'll tell you anything you need to know when you pick up the permit. When/where are you going?

JohnGalt: "

timatkn: "The food storage order has been revoked twice and is not in effect currently"

Oh, I was not aware of this revocation, thank you for the correction!"

Yea if I remember correctly it was put into affect just for certain entries off the Gunflint in 2020…then was rescinded in the winter. Then again a new order for the whole BWCAW in 2021 early in the season. Then once again rescinded in the winter/spring of 2022. The FS doesn’t do a great job with the advertising of the revocations… maybe by design :)

T

JohnGalt: "Legally speaking, the order covers any organic material (have any leather on your pack or shoes? They have to be hung according to this order…). Imho, it is the duty of free people to reject such rules which are so draconian.

I’m sure those ‘approved bear resistant container’ manufacturers were popping bottles of champagne when this ridiculous order was signed & I’d bet they lobbied for it as well.
"

If you think there is a bear resistant container lobby. . . Woof.

Rule change: must attend fall wing night…
Smiley face emoji! Miss you and John…

HA!

We're heading up on Saturday of the wingnight. I don't think with family obligations that we can swing leaving a day prior, so sorry to say we won't be coming. I was trying to make it work for one night, but alas...

Going in at Sawbill in 2 weeks. I'm going with the local paddling club with 2 BWCA virgins and one other...all women except for my husband, and all older than me, I think. Should be interesting!

boonie: "Not much different, Nojobro - they'll tell you anything you need to know when you pick up the permit. When/where are you going? "

Going in at Sawbill in 2 weeks. I'm going with the local paddling club with 2 BWCA virgins and one other...all women except for my husband, and all older than me, I think. Should be interesting!

#8 Be nice