The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is one of the most pristine natural landscapes in the United States—but its future is at risk. Becky Rom, national chair of the Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters, joins The Young IKE to discuss the fight against mining near the Boundary Waters, the legal and political battles over Minnesota’s mineral resources, and why conservation is more urgent now than ever.

Rom shares insights on how conservation efforts have evolved, the push-and-pull between economic development and environmental protection, and how everyday citizens can take action to preserve and protect the nature we love.

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Becky Rom

Bio: Becky Rom is a lifelong conservationist and the national chair of the Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters, leading efforts to protect the BWCAW from sulfide-ore mining and environmental degradation. With decades of advocacy experience, she has been instrumental in shaping policy and legal strategies to safeguard public lands.
Links:🔹 Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters – https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org

Episode Outline:

🔹 Why the Boundary Waters Matter – The ecological, cultural, and recreational significance of the BWCA.

🔹 Mining Threats & Environmental Risks – How proposed sulfide-ore mining projects could devastate the region’s fragile ecosystem.

🔹 The Legal & Political Fight – The state and federal policies shaping the future of the Boundary Waters.

🔹 Balancing Conservation & Economic Interests – Impact of mining on local economies and tourism.

🔹 How You Can Help – The role of grassroots advocacy and public engagement in protecting public lands.

Episode Sponsor:

🎙️ The Young Ike is bringing these conversations into the real world with live, quarterly community dialogues. Thank you to the Minnesota Valley Chapter of the IWLA for making this possible.

Learn more at iwlamnvalley.org

Host & Show Info:

Host Name: Griffith Pugh

Podcast Website: www.theyoungike.org

Community & Calls to Action:

📩 Contact the host: griffith@theyoungike.org

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