Expressing concerns over the possible closing of the Pow Wow hiking trail in Superior National Forest, representatives of nine hiking, outdoor and environmental groups have signed a letter to Superior National Forest supervisor Jim Sanders requesting to keep the 30-mile trail on the hiking trail list.
Last October the Pagami Creek Fire burned down 145 square miles of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), which included the entire Pow Wow Trail. This means the Forest Service will reassess its trail maintenance and signage methods.
“It is our hope the Forest Service will preserve the trail for future generations instead of focusing on temporary difficulties in maintenance or considering building a ‘comparable’ trail outside the BWCAW,” stated the letter. “We fully understand the challenges in recovering and maintaining the trail in the near future. Our organizations are willing to assist in this effort.”
The Pow Wow Trail was built as a direct result of the BWCA Wilderness Act of 1978 and is considered irreplaceable.
Because of its loop alignment, the Pow Wow Trail is a fabulous feature of the BWCAW and is a popular destination for weekend hikers. Hiking organizations previously saved the trail in 1993 after the Forest Service removed the trail from inventory as part of the BWCA Management Plan and are willing to assist if necessary to revive the trail again.
“The challenges to restoring the trail are quite high, and we understand if the Forest Service will have a difficult time committing the resources themselves,” said Martin Kubik, president of the Boundary Waters Advisory Committee and founder of the Kekekabic Trail Club. “If the resources are not available, then we’re hopeful the Forest Service will allow for our organizations to help preserve what is a beautiful and historic trail.”
For more information or to join the coalition, contact Martin Kubik at bringbackPWT@yahoo.com.
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