Iowa Paddlesport Expo 2010

Quetico and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) were set aside as protected areas in 1909 and 100 years later, became wilderness areas. Though similar, the two parks have evolved in different ways. Former Park Ranger Jon Nelson will share slides and stories of the Quetico and discuss the diversity of plant and animal life in this unique region.

Jon Nelson’s book, Quetico: Near to Nature’s Heart uses thorough research to present an insightful look into the natural history of Quetico Park, long recognized as a gem among parks. Examined are the adaptations that have allowed moose, white-tailed deer, wolves and other mammals to survive, as well as the human history of the park beginning with the Ojibwa living there when the region became a designated park.