In 2000, Conservationists with Common Sense (CWCS) participated in several issues involving land management, motorized access, and recreational use.
Below is a summary of four key advocacy positions from that year.
Support for Little East Creek Access
On November 7, 2000, CWCS wrote to U.S. Forest Service Chief Mike Dombeck requesting emergency access to St. Louis County lands. These lands were within the Superior National Forest, affected by the July 4, 1999, windstorm. The storm flattened over 400,000 acres around the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
CWCS cited Forest Service data: fuel loads rose from 12–20 to 80–150 tons per acre. They emphasized the need for quick access to remove downed timber and protect public safety. CWCS argued that protecting lives and property should take priority over wilderness preservation.
Note: This position reflects CWCS’s advocacy in 2000 following the 1999 windstorm and may not reflect current forest management policies or access needs.
Letter of Support for Isle Royale Boaters Association
Also on November 7, 2000, CWCS expressed support for the Isle Royale Boaters Association’s legal efforts to maintain multiple-use access. They referenced shared legal experiences, including truck access restoration to BWCAW motorized portages. In 1999, trucks were returned after their removal in 1992.
Support came from Senator Rod Grams and Congressman James Oberstar, both active at that time. CWCS offered to be publicly listed as a supporting organization alongside IRBA.
Note: This reflects CWCS’s 2000 support during a legal dispute over Isle Royale access. References to lawsuits and legislation relate to past actions.
Voyageurs National Park Management Plan Position
On October 6, 2000, CWCS opposed parts of a draft Voyageurs National Park Management Plan. They supported more campsites but opposed new permit systems, citing low visitor use.
CWCS objected to vague houseboat definitions and bans on biking and sled dog use. They noted these activities were allowed in the adjacent BWCAW. CWCS also opposed a blanket jetski ban, which they said lacked public input and impact studies.
Note: These comments reflect CWCS’s views in 2000. Park rules and management plans may have changed since that time.
Opposition to National Park Snowmobile Ban
Also on October 6, 2000, CWCS wrote to Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott about a proposed National Park snowmobile ban. They argued it lacked public input and proper environmental review. CWCS supported Senator Rod Grams’s proposal to preserve snowmobile access based on January 1, 2000, rules.
They also highlighted Minnesota-based companies Polaris and Arctic Cat, which were working on cleaner snowmobile engines. CWCS supported environmental studies before any permanent restrictions.
Note: This statement reflects CWCS’s advocacy efforts in 2000 regarding snowmobile use in National Parks. National Park regulations may have changed since.