Winter is here, and that is excellent news for the cold-loving Winter Environment J-term class! On Wednesday, January 5th, we will set off from Decorah bound for the frigid Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) of Minnesota. After staying the night in the town of Tofte, we will continue north to Grand Marais and Camp Menogyn, where no road leads; instead, we will traverse a frozen lake by snowshoe to reach the camp’s warm cabins. From there, our snow-filled adventures can begin!

This J-term course provides an amazing opportunity for Luther students interested in biology and the environment to explore the boreal forest in northern Minnesota. Through readings and class discussions, along with designing and performing our own original field-based research projects, the class will come away from the trip with hands-on experience working and learning in a natural environment. Alongside academics, we will also be immersed in the winter landscape, with opportunities to cross-country ski, snowshoe, and even dogsled, just to name a few.

My name is Ryan Rogers, and I am very excited to give you a glimpse of our experience through this blog! I am from Osceola, Wisconsin, and am a sophomore here at Luther majoring in environmental science. I run for the cross country and track teams, and am part of the newly formed ECO club on campus. I like to spend my time reading, playing guitar, and spending time outdoors. Of course, I am a huge winter lover with a passion for cross-country skiing, making this the ideal trip for me!

In a few short days we will be off, and we couldn’t be more excited! Check back here to find a few updates about our incredible experiences in the wintery Boundary Waters.