40th Celebration

Oct 25, 2018
Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters
Photo of auction bidder sitting at table holding up sign with "142" on it

On October 21, 1978, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Act was signed by Jimmy Carter, protecting the Boundary Waters.

This past week, on October 22, 2018, Boundary Waters lovers from across the country came together to celebrate the Wilderness and inspire the continued fight to keep the Boundary Waters clean and protected for future generations. 

Guests arrive early in the evening for the start of the VIP reception.

Conversations and smiles are exchanged in the outdoor tent space.

NMW Co-chair Adam Fletcher, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and Special Guest Christy Goldfuss share stories and laughs.

Experts from the University of Minnesota Raptor Center chat with guests about these striking birds.

Guests peruse the silent auction table before placing their bids.

Beautiful scenery from the Boundary Waters Wilderness is projected over the party below.

Old friends reunite before sitting down for dinner.

Special guests Tom Vilsack, Betty McCollum, and Walter Mondale greet happily as they take their seats.

First speaker of the evening: Becky Rom, National Campaign Chair.

Second speaker of the evening: Erik Paulsen, U.S. Representative.

Third speaker of the evening: Betty McCollum, U.S. Representative.

Fourth speaker of the evening: Walter Mondale, Vice President of the United States.

Fifth speaker of the evening: Tom Vilsack, Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.

Sixth speaker of the evening: Christy Goldfuss, Former Director of the White House Council on Environmental Quality.

Joseph Goldstein, founder of Kids for the Boundary Waters, speaks after receiving the Outstanding Wilderness Warrior Award.

Four board members of Kids for the Boundary Waters.

Roger Powell stands proudly with his refurbished canoe before the live auction.

Roger Powell portages his canoe between tables during the live auction!

Guests "raise their paddles" to bid in the live auction and donation waterfall.

Every seat was filled in support of the Boundary Waters Wilderness Act.

Following the dinner and auction, Universoul brought new energy to the room with music and dancing.

Thanks to all who attended the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Boundary Waters Wilderness Act. The celebration was energizing and filled with hope for the future of this wilderness; here's to 40 more years of Boundary Waters protection!