Ely is usually bustling at this time of the year, with many people heading out or returning from trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The only vehicles in northeastern Minnesota with canoes on their tops this week, however, are those leaving, a report stated.
Officials closed the most popular wilderness area in the country last weekend after several fires were lit. This was a huge blow for those who had spent months planning their trips and to the outfitters, as well as other businesses that depend on them.
In the midst of this summer’s drought, several lightning-caused fires have erupted in the wilderness. The larger Greenwood Lake fire to the south has caused the evacuation of approximately 280 homes and other structures. It was first spotted on August 15 at 15 miles (24 km) southwest of Isabella. Officials from Superior National Forest have been keeping a close eye on the fires in Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park. This led to the closure of some Boundary Waters north and east of Ely earlier this year.
Forest officials closed the wilderness area for at least one week after the John Ek fire broke out late last week. They claimed that the Greenwood Lake fire and fire had strained their resources to ensure safety for campers and paddlers.
High winds pushed the Greenwood Lake fire to double its size overnight, reaching 30 square miles (79 km2) as of Tuesday morning. The John Ek fire almost doubled its size to 2.3 miles (6 km2), thanks to high winds. Residents further north along the Gunflint Trail (a dead-end highway which is a popular jumping-off point for Boundary Waters trips) were instructed Monday night to remain seated in case they needed to evacuate.
Zabokrtsky, an outfitter in Ely, said that his customers were understanding but it was too late in the season for him to reschedule. Many have rebooked their trips for next year. He said that he has been through dozens of cancellations, and had to refund thousands of dollars.
The BWCA occupies slightly more than one-third of the 4,687 sq miles (12,140 km) of Superior National Forest. Most of the forest is still open.
The National Park Service closed some trails and campgrounds in response to a wildfire that erupted on Michigan’s remote Isle Royale, Lake Superior, about 20 miles (32 km) offshore of Minnesota.
It’s disheartening that the wildfires have led to the closure of the beloved wilderness area, causing frustration for travelers and outfitters. However, the community’s support for those affected and the efforts of the authorities to manage the fires are genuinely uplifting. This resilience and unity are praiseworthy. I believe that with everyone’s understanding and assistance, the wilderness area will soon reopen for future exploration.