Hi John - Today, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Wilderness Act and look ahead to the next 60 years of wilderness protection.
Exactly 60 years ago today, on September 3, 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Wilderness Act into law. The bill had a profound impact on preserving America's natural treasures, including our beloved Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness - which was one of the first Wilderness areas established by the Act.
The Wilderness Act is considered one of the most pivotal conservation efforts ever for America’s public lands – it established the National Wilderness Preservation System. Today, the Act protects over 111 million acres across 806 Wilderness Areas in 44 states.
The Boundary Waters stands as a shining example of this protection, thanks to the tireless efforts of Minnesota leaders such as Ernest Oberholtzer, Sigurd Olson, and Senator Hubert Humphrey. It is our honor to continue their legacy by ensuring that this vital area remains protected for future generations. |