Who We Are
Northwoods Volunteer Connection is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, created on June 10, 2014. We are dedicated to recruiting, training and delivering volunteers to work on projects within or near the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota.
​
The idea of a volunteer coordinating organization came from a local canoe outfitter, a retired Forest Service District Ranger, and a local US Forest Service staff person. They each saw a possibility for linking the untapped resource of potential volunteers with the backlog of deferred maintenance work and other underfunded projects. A steering committee was formed consisting of US Forest Service personnel, wilderness outfitters, non-profit environmental educators, motorized and non-motorized club members, forest scientists and forest users. The steering committee worked for nearly a year to build a consensus among a broad range forest interests on the goals of this organization.
Partners in stewardship of the Superior National Forest
The Northwoods of northeastern Minnesota are well-known for their natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Focusing on the Superior National Forest, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Northwoods Volunteer Connection coordinates volunteers to complete work on public lands. This work keeps our forests healthy, and trails and campsites open for use. We lead projects of our own, as well as partner with other area trail organizations to take care of logistics and provide the training, tools and equipment needed to complete the job. All you have to do is show up and be willing to lend a hand! Gain new experiences while enjoying the outdoors and giving back to the sustainability of our Northwoods.