Connecting Water, Connecting People: Trek to Raise Awareness
Connecting Water, Connecting People
A trek from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan to heighten awareness of the threats Metallic Sulfide Mining poses on Great Lakes Waters.
Our GoalIn August 2005, a group of adventurers will travel via kayak, canoe, and foot from the shores of Lake Superior to the shores of Lake Michigan. Our journey will take us from Marquette County's Yellow Dog Country to the mouth of Menominee River. Along the way we will be stopping in local communities to: 1) highlight the threats of metallic sulfide mining to the Yellow Dog Plains, Menominee River and Great Lakes headwaters; 2) show the connection of watersheds and people of the Upper Peninsula; 3) celebrate the natural beauty and recreational value of land and waters of the North Woods.
The Trek
Starting in Marquette, the team will kayak to the Yellow Dog River, stopping in Big Bay to hold a public forum. We will then hike to Kennecott Minerals proposed Eagle Mine site, where the risks of polluting our pristine waters will be highlighted. Continuing, the team will hike to the confluence of Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River, beginning the long trek down the Menominee watershed by canoe. We will stop in Michigamme, Republic, Norway and other communities to participate in public forums and events. Upon reaching the potential Back Forty mine site along the Menominee River, we will stop to highlight risks mining poses to the environment and Native American cultural and sacred sites, and meet with concerned citizens. Continuing on will lead the team to Menominee and Marinette where the nearly 300 mile journey will end with a public gathering.
Join Us!We encourage people to join in on our trek. See the Schedule of Events to find details on each leg of the journey. Hikers, kayakers, canoers, and sailors interested in the event can contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to sign up.
How you can help
To carry out this adventure we need your help:
1) Become a sponsor - Our goal is to raise $10,000 to elevate public awareness about the threats of metallic sulfide mining to the Yellow Dog Plains, Menominee River and waters of the upper Great Lakes.
2) Become a participant - You are invited to participate in any or all of the legs of this event. As a team member, you can help us raise funds for the miles you travel.
3) Donate materials - We need equipment such as kayaks, canoes, tents, and other outdoor gear. Food for our crew is also a welcome donation.
4) Volunteer - Please consider helping by becoming a volunteer. We need people to take on many tasks. Hauling equipment, preparing food and setting up events are a few examples of things that will need to be done. We are also looking for acoustic musicians to perform! For more detailed ways to help please call or e-mail:
Phone: (906) 226-6649 or E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Business and individuals can sponsor this event and receive recognition on our web site and in printed materials. Sponsorships begin at $25 and we will display your banner or business card on our Sponsors page.