▲ 16 r/BWCA

2021 BWCA Closure

It started August 21st and ended September 17th. Largely caused by the Greenwood Fire in the Arrowhead region. The fire burned about 27,000 acres and was considered contained by mid-October. The fires this summer, started by storms on July 6th, have burned almost 70,000 acres.

I think the reason they re-opened the BWCA in 2021 is because it was isolated, and they were able to close the closest entry points. The problem they face now is the number of fires burning and how spread out they are.

They may cancel entry permits one week at a time, but they're not going to rush the re-opening.

I know they're busting their tails but seriously, they need better communication with the public.

reddit.com
u/Schmutzie_ — 28 days ago

BWCA Closed Until October 1

The Forest Service said they'll be reviewing the closure on a daily basis, but it's closed. Best case scenario was to re-open this Friday 7/24. The problem is the number of fires, and how spread out they are. In order to do a partial opening they'd have to go through the million+ acres and post OPEN/CLOSED signs to let paddlers know which parts they can still explore. A logistic nightmare and one beyond their manpower as they continue to fight the fires. A devastating hit for the outfitters in particular and Minnesota tourism in general.

u/Schmutzie_ — 29 days ago