Preserving wilderness for its intrinsic value is crucial for the well-being of the planet and future generations and represents a commitment to preserve the natural world not just for its utility to humans but for its inherent right to exist and thrive. I am an enthusiastic professional with over 15 years of experience in land management and conservation policy, including over a decade with the Forest Service as a wilderness ranger. I am dedicated to advocating for the intrinsic value of wilderness and wild places where humans visit but do not remain, and have a deep appreciation for forest ecology and expertise in wilderness travel and primitive survival skills. My life's avocation is to speak for and to honor a sense of place that exists both culturally and spiritually in the Quetico-Superior ecosystem. I believe that by helping to tell the story of this special place it will continue to inspire art, literature, and a sense of awe and wonder, connecting people to something greater.
As a wilderness ranger caring for the BWCA I developed an intimate knowledge of the landscape, an understanding of the pressures faced by the wilderness and a deep appreciation for Leave No Trace ethics. Recently I have worked as a wilderness guide helping people experience and understand this special place while educating them about how we can avoid “loving these places to death.” In joining the campaign, I am excited to be counted among the chorus of dedicated individuals who have advocated tirelessly for protecting the BWCAW and the entire Rainy River Watershed from copper/nickel mining pollution.
In my personal life I maintain a homestead in Ely, MN and live for snow days and skijoring with my pups!