By Kaitlyn Iliff
When I was a teen I took a bus up near the boundary waters with a bunch of other teens and a few adult chaperones. We all have memories of a different time and for me, one of my favorites was being up near the boundary water canoe area. It ended up being a vacation in state and a trip which left me with memories I still cherish.
We rented house boats and took to the waters. During the day you would sit atop the house boat basking in the sun and looking out at the vast beautiful blue waters. The boundary waters canoe area is precious in a world where you hear horns frequently, sirens and the loud bustle of the city. The boundary waters canoe area is a serene escape. It was a gift to see nature so well preserved just as it was back in the early 2000’s, completely and utterly priceless.
In more recent years I again ventured north for the peace the boundary water canoe area gives for camping at their designated spots. You could just hear the nature surrounding you and each spot was so private it offered tranquility. It’s sad to see the boundary waters up for mining, a place to appreciate and protect. Back when we were teens we wanted to protect the area so far up north so much we even brought biodegradable soap to protect the environment. Here we are years later bringing bustle to a sacred place in our beautiful state and taking away from the land which has provided us such beauty. Some things make such little sense, taking away from the wonder to mine.
What will remain in a world where taking is our norm?
Kaitlyn Iliff, Edina
Kaitlyn,
Do you drive an electric vehicle?