How did your Senators and Representative vote?

On April 16, 2026, the U.S. Senate narrowly passed a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that rolls back critical protections for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and its surrounding watershed. The resolution reopens the watershed to potential sulfide-ore mining upstream of the most visited Wilderness complex in the United States. The House of Representatives passed the resolution earlier this year. 

Thousands of Trout Unlimited members and supporters from across the country emailed and called their members of Congress urging them to keep these vital protections in place. While many Senators and Representatives heeded this call, a narrow majority did not. We urge you to take action to thank those who voted to maintain protection for the Boundary Waters. Similarly, if your members of Congress voted to open this area up to risky sulfide-ore mining, we urge you to respectfully express your disappointment. 

While the recent vote is setback, we will work tirelessly to ensure that the Boundary Waters and unique coldwater fisheries found here are protected for future generations – we hope that you continue to stand with us in defense of this national treasure.

At nearly 1.1 million acres, the Boundary Waters spreads across the northeastern tip of Minnesota, containing over 1,100 lakes, 2,000 designated campsites, hundreds of miles of rivers and streams, and one of the largest self-sustaining populations of native lake trout in the lower 48. The Boundary Waters are a haven for hunters and anglers who come to the region to pursue lake trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, whitetail deer, grouse, and black bear. The potential loss of these unique recreational opportunities is a stark reminder of the stakes involved in protecting this irreplaceable natural resource.