From Wilderness to Washington: Kids for the Boundary Waters Take Action
I first visited the Boundary Waters when I was just 8 years old. Instantly, I was struck by the clearest water and the most beautiful landscape I had ever seen. There were more types of fish and birds than I could fathom at that age. In that moment, I knew I had seen the most beautiful thing in the world.
Lakes so clean you can drink from them
The Boundary Waters is a nationally protected, breathtaking landscape of over a million acres of interconnected lakes, rivers, and forests in northern Minnesota—just a four-hour drive from my home. Words cannot describe the water’s clarity; it’s one of the few places left where the water is so clean you can drink straight from the lake.
Within the town of Ely, which serves as the entrance to the Boundary Waters, you’ll meet some of the kindest, most generous people, all of whom rely on the region’s multi-million-dollar outdoor economy.
But all of this is under threat. If the proposed sulfide-copper mining is allowed to move forward, it could pollute the water, devastate wildlife, and destroy livelihoods. The risk is far too great. Once the water is polluted, it can never be restored.
Amplifying youth voices in D.C.
In November 2024, I was given the amazing opportunity to fight for the Boundary Waters in our nation’s capital, telling this same story. There, I met other high school and college-aged kids from all different backgrounds who came together with one shared passion: to save the Boundary Waters. Over the next five days, we presented to members of Congress and took part in more than thirty meetings. Looking back now, I smile at those memories. It was a time when I truly felt like I was making a difference.
To this day, my friends and I continue to fight, from galas and meetings with Senator Tina Smith to lobbying at our own schools and colleges to spread the word. But we alone cannot win this fight; it takes a community.
That’s why I call on you today, because now more than ever, it’s time to act—to protect this place we love, the place that holds our memories.
Give to the Max Day is here! Right now, your gift will be TRIPLED thanks to the Manitou Fund. Today, every dollar will be tripled–not only for advocacy but for educating young voices.
Make a 3X gift.
Whether it’s your time or your donation, anything and everything helps. Let’s make sure every generation of young people has the chance to experience the magic of wild places.
For the Wilderness,
Lucas Chong
Kids for the Boundary Waters
