Skip to main content

Boreal Community Media

Frustrated residents ask North Shore tourists to pick up trash

Jul 09, 2020 11:40AM ● By Editor

Photo: KBJR-TV


By Emma Quinn from KBJR-TV - July 9, 2020


Picking up one's trash may seem like common sense to some, but residents in Grand Marais say it's becoming a problem.

With the influx of tourists coming to the area, popular hot spots are becoming less cared for, "I am kind of baffled that we're even talking about it," said Grand Marais resident Emily Siefkes.

Another resident in the area, Bryan Hansel said he started noticing the trash about a month ago when he was out canoeing.

"You go into these remote campsites, there in the middle of nowhere and the fire rings are just full of trash, trash left all over, particularly the beaches," said Hansel.

Both residents say the trash is disrespectful.

"I think sometimes people forget that people live here, where it's just a vacation spot to them," said Siefkes.

Meanwhile, visitors at a nearby campsite say it's not happening everywhere.

Cheryl and Rock Lindville have been taking visits to Grand Marais campsites for over 30 years.

They say people at their campground have been picking up after themselves during the two weeks they've been visiting.

Rock said, "Well they shouldn't be allowed in the park if their going to have that problem. But we haven't seen that problem, we haven't seen that problem in 32 years."

For the people who have seen the leftover trash as being a problem, they've taken to social media in hopes of shining a spotlight on the litter.

Cheryl said, "Some of those people have to learn the manners of camping."

Residents believe those who are leaving trash around are first time campers who aren't aware of the leave no trace rule.

They point to the pandemic as the reason why they've seen this influx in visitors.


To watch a video version of this story and see related articles, follow tis link to the KBJR-TV website.  https://kbjr6.com/2020/07/08/frustrated-residents-ask-north-shore-tourists-to-pick-up-trash/

Boreal Ship Spotter - larger view here