For Otto Devine, who grew up in Ely near the Boundary Waters, the SCA’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Fellowship in the Superior National Forest offered a new way to experience a familiar landscape. Instead of simply enjoying the wilderness, he could help care for the place that shaped him.
“I was able to go on trips in my time with the SCA, all to different areas of the BWCA,” he said. “I grew up in Ely near the Boundary Waters, but this gave me an ability to go on meaningful trips where I was able to help give back.”
(Photo Credit: Otto Devine)
Otto participated in trips to several areas of the Boundary Waters, contributing to projects that supported the protection and responsible use of the wilderness.
When wildfire activity disrupted the season’s original plans, he adapted and, with the help of the SCA and our Forest Service partners, found other ways to serve, including assisting at the seaplane base, teaching canoe classes, and supporting fire-supply operations.
“The fire incident initially threw a wrench in things, but I was able to find places where I could help, like at the seaplane base, teaching canoe classes, and even working at the fire supply,” he said. “I was able to meet a lot of cool people that I hope to work with in the future if I am able to get a seasonal or permanent job. The SCA helped point me in the direction I want to work toward in the future.”
Thanks to generous donor support, Otto could help forest staff complete essential conservation projects that protected the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and enhanced the experience of those who visit it.
Support the SCA’s mission with a tax-deductible donation today. Your support helps empower young people to serve our environment while protecting the public lands, waters and the wildlife that make experiences like these possible for future generations of conservationists.
Protect What You Love widget on website
"*" indicates required fields
