Protectors complete 8th annual Menominee River Canoe Journey; make history building traditional dugout canoe

By Michele Bourdieu

Near the 60 Islands indigenous ancestral land and cultural sites, Protectors of the Menominee River launch canoes and kayaks on July 2, 2026, the first of four days of paddling -- 48 miles -- on the Menominee River to call attention to the threats posed by the Back 40 gold mining project. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

MENOMINEE, Mich. -- Eagles, great blue herons, sturgeon, deer and other animals greeted the Protectors of the Menominee River during their eighth annual four-day Menominee River Canoe Journey July  2-5, 2026.

"They are our relatives," says Dawn Wilber, a member of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, who has co-organized and led this trip for eight years down the Menominee River, which forms a border between Michigan and Wisconsin. "Take your time and enjoy observing our relatives. Learn from them, pay attention to them, give them the honor. This is not a race," she tells participants in the trip.

An eagle observes the Protectors of the Menominee River as they set out on their journey. Participants counted 41 eagles during the four days of this year's trip. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

Wilber reported sitings of 41 eagles and 18 sturgeon on this trip, many more blue herons than in previous years, a handful of osprey and plenty of deer and other birds, fish and animals.

"It’s just so hard to keep track of them all," Wilber added.

The purpose of the trip is to draw attention to the need to protect the river -- and historic cultural sites that border it -- from the Back 40 mine for gold and other minerals. The mine is projected to be located on or near Anaem Omot (Dogs Belly), the 60 Islands site of ancient Menominee burial grounds, gardens and dance rings -- which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.*

Both Native and non-Native canoers and kayakers of all ages have participated in the journey -- some for just a day or more and others for the entire trip.

This year a number of participants came from far away -- perhaps because of a new project begun by co-organizers of the trip Wayne Swett and Dawn Wilber and supported by their Menominee Tribe, the creation of a Maeqtekōs (traditional dugout canoe) from a pine log donated by the Tribe. The project attracted much media attention during the weeks preceding the July canoe/kayak trip.**

Dawn Wilber and Wayne Swett are pictured here with the Maeqtekōs (traditional dugout canoe) they have worked to create from a pine log since mid-June. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River) 

"The Maeqtekōs will serve as a living tribute to the Menominee people, whose ancestors traveled, fished, traded, and lived along this river for thousands of years," said Wilber on a Go Fund Me site asking for public support to help cover costs of materials, tools, site expenses, food for volunteers, and cultural activities. "More than a canoe, it represents our history, culture, resilience, and enduring responsibility to protect the waters and lands that have sustained us since time immemorial," she noted.

Pictured here in her canoe, co-organizer Dawn Wilber leads the group of participants in the eighth annual Menominee River Journey on Day 1, July 2, 2026. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River) 

After learning the traditional process for making the canoe from the Mashantucket Pequot Nation in Connecticut, Swett and Wilber began working on the dugout for two weeks ahead of the trip in hopes of completing it in time to launch it with the other canoes and the kayaks. Swett worked continuously on the dugout while visitors of all ages came to help him at the location of the project -- the camp set up for the journey at the Chappee Rapids Weber Learning Center just north of Menominee, Michigan.**

This photo shows the Menominee Maeqtekōs (dugout canoe) in late June with evidence of the traditional burning method used to shape the canoe. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

In addition to organizing the Canoe Journey, Dawn Wilber works on the dugout canoe at the camp. (Photo © Christine Fossen-Rades)

On July 1 participants set up their camp and the following day launched canoes and kayaks (photo above) from a site that is next to Menominee cultural sites that are now jeopardized by the Back 40 mining project, which claims that area for a gold mine.

Meanwhile, the two firekeepers, Brett Hayes, left, and Ron Dickie kept the sacred fire burning throughout the trip in addition to generously helping load canoes, kayaks and people when needed. The two learned traditional firekeeping skills (which include staying near the fire all night) from the late Dave Oshkosh, who passed away in November 2025. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now) 

July 2, day 1 on the river 

Day 1 on the river, July 2, 2026: Bryce Skenandore (also known as Little Wolf), a member of the Menominee, Oneida nation, one of the youngest paddlers on the trip, paddles a canoe with Dawn Wilber. (Photo by Dawn Wilber for Protectors of the Menominee River) 

This year the canoers and kayakers came from several states in addition to Michigan and Wisconsin, including the three O'Halloran brothers -- Peter from Georgia, Kevin from Colorado and Brian with his wife Maggie from Florida. The three brothers also discovered they had a historic family connection with this area near the river.

Kevin, left, and Peter O'Halloran share a canoe during the 2026 Menominee River Canoe Journey. Here they are on July 2, the first day of the trip. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Following close by, Brian O'Halloran paddles his kayak. Not pictured here but also paddling a kayak was his wife, Maggie. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

During the first day, the group found a good beach for a rest stop.

Rest stops like this one on an accessible beach are helpful for cooling off and stretching legs. Participants paddle about 12 miles each day. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Bryce enjoys cooling off at a swim stop on July 2, day 1 of the canoe journey. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River) 

July 3, day 2 on the river

Day 2, July 3, included some swim stops and a visit with Tina Lesperance, a faithful supporter of the Menominee River Canoe Journey, who met the group at the Koss Bridge.

Tina Lesperance waves to participants in the Menominee River Canoe Journey from the Koss Bridge on July 3, day 2 of the trip. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

On July 3, 2026, Tina Lesperance, a supporter of the Menominee River Canoe Journey, greets the canoers and kayakers from Koss Bridge. Click on YouTube icon for a larger view of videos. Start videos on YouTube for best reception.(Video © Tina Lesperance)

Canoers and kayakers stopped near the bridge for a rest and visited briefly with Tina.

Regina Chaltry, left, who has participated in many of the Menominee canoe trips, is pictured here with Tina Lesperance. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Regina Chaltry of Birch Creek, Mich., had this to say about this year's canoe journey:

"This year's canoe journey was, as always, amazing! This year was extra special, epic actually, because of the dugout canoe Dawn and Wayne were working on. We were hoping it would be done in time for this year's journey but after however many years it has been since the last dugout was built here on the Menominee River, no need to rush. I feel so blessed to have been able to watch, learn and help. What an experience, seeing this 160+ year-old tree become this lovely canoe. 

"The canoe journey was special this year as we brought along our family canoe, a Hoefgen, made a few miles away, in Menominee township. The weather was perfect, so great reuniting with friends, being on the river, watching eagles, deer, turtles, heron, muskrat, kingfisher, and fish jumping to peak out at us. It always goes by so quickly, so I try to really pay attention and treasure each moment." 

Regina Chaltry and her daughter, Gracey, paddle their special Hoefgen family canoe during the 2026 Menominee River Canoe Journey. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

Two Wisconsin fishermen joined the canoe journey on July3 -- Jeff Lindbom of Wallace and Lynn Buck of Marinette. Lindbom sent Keweenaw Now a message recently about his reasons for paddling with the Menominee Canoe Journey four or five miles (usually with his dog) for seven of its eight years. This year he spent most of day 2 with the group along with his best friend, Lynn. 

Two fishermen -- Jeff Lindbom, right, and Lynn Buck -- joined the Menominee River Canoe Journey on July 3. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

"Throughout the years I've learned so many things from the Menominees and have started investigating my own Native American heritage. My Mother was 1/2 Ojibwe," Lindbom writes. "About a year before my Mother passed, I started asking Menominee Tribal members about their values and truths that they uphold. They respect the earth in more ways than I had ever imagined. Once I opened up, my whole world of appreciation for what we all share entered my heart on a new plane. I've found a new peace that I never knew existed. I look at the trees, water and every living thing differently now. I enter the forest and listen deeply for what it tells me. At age 68 it's an amazing and soothing calm that I never had before."

Lindbom adds that he has been fighting the Back 40 mining project for more than 10 years. 
 
"As a landowner on the river I knew I had to do something," Lindbom explains. "Too much is at stake having a metallic sulfide mine along the river. I've made many friends along the way and don't press my values on anyone if the vibes are that they're not interested. My values for nature have increased 10-fold since I joined the fight. Right now it seems that I'll be standing for those values until I'm taken from this earth."

Participants beach canoes and kayaks for a refreshing swim stop on July 3, day 2. The swim stop usually means wading because of the strong current in the river. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

When beaching the boats was not possible, sometimes a swim stop was on a sandbar, where boats linked to one another with safety lanyards and "swimmers" got out to cool off in the water.

Kayaks and canoes stop on a sandbar in the middle of the river and hook together for a swim stop and a snack. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

John Peiffer cools off on the sandbar. (Photo by Keweenaw Now) 

At the end of paddling on day 2, friends Kelly and Chris welcomed the canoers and kayakers for a brief visit and allowed them to leave the boats at their home on the river overnight. Their generosity saved the time and effort of transporting the boats back to the camp and then back to the river the next morning.

On July 3, day 2 of the Menominee River Canoe Journey, participants stop after paddling and leave their canoes and kayaks at the home of friends Kelly and Chris overnight to save some transport for the next day. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now) 

Back at the camp, two of the younger canoers, James and Tim Corn, now of Menominee, Mich., spent some time before dinner chipping away wood of the dugout canoe.

Tim Corn, foreground, and his brother, James, offer some work on the dugout canoe at camp -- chipping away wood to contribute to the form of the dugout canoe. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

On July 3 Wayne Swett described burning firewood to use its curve in forming the inside curve of the dugout canoe. Above is a screenshot from his video. Click here for the video. (Screenshot and video courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River) 

Fresh fish was on the menu for dinner on day 2. Camp cook Ann Marie Oshkosh was hard at work much of the day preparing it on her cooking fire for the hungry paddlers. "Annie" cooks traditional, healthy foods as much as possible for the canoe journey each year. 

Ann Marie Oshkosh, cook for the camp, prepares fish, wild rice with berries and salad for dinner on July 3. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

July 4, day 3 on the river

Boat traffic on the Menominee River was busier on July 4. Canoers and kayakers had to be wary of jet skis and motor boats. Some additional participants brought the number of boats to 12. Fortunately the weather was good and a portage around a dam was successful. Some local residents celebrating the holiday near the river waved and shouted words of support. The destination for this day was the home of supporters Sally and Ed (Buff) Draze, who, for several years, have welcomed participants in this journey to visit on day 3 before returning to camp and to park their boats overnight at the Draze riverfront, saving another transport. 

Canoes and kayaks head down the river on a sunny, pleasant July 4. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)
 

Canoers and kayakers attempt to keep together in a group on July 4 for safety as boat traffic increases during the day. (Video © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now) 

Many helpers showed up to load the boats on trucks for the portage. 

Strong arms load the boats for transport around a dam. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

The number of boats has increased since more people joined the group on day 3. (Photo by Keweenaw Now) 

 

On July 4, day 3 of the 2026 Menominee River Canoe Journey, canoers and kayakers set out again in their boats following a portage around a dam. (Video © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now) 

 

The canoes and kayaks also took a route on day 3 through some scenic areas, offering opportunities for observing wildlife and vegetation.

 

Paddlers enjoy a relaxing, quiet spot on the river. Paddling was slow and easy with little wind. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

 

July 4 was a pretty hot day so a swim stop was needed.

 

On July 4, day 3 of the 2026 Menominee River Canoe Journey, participants cool off during a swim stop or anchor in the shade to escape the late afternoon sun. (Video © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

 

Canoers and kayakers landed at the Draze property, enjoyed a relaxing picnic dinner cooked by Ann Marie Oshkosh, and visited with Sally and Buff Draze. 

 

Regina Chaltry and her daughter, Gracey, visit with Sally and Buff Draze on July 4. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

 

Ann Marie Oshkosh cooks a large pan of fresh vegetables over the fire -- part of the picnic dinner for the hungry paddlers visiting at the Draze home. Dinner also included buffalo meat cooked with wild rice. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

James Corn, who assisted Annie and Laureen Kaprelian (pictured in background between them) in making a blackberry upside-down cake for dessert, proudly displays the cake in Sally Draze's kitchen. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Relaxing on the deck at Sally and Buff's home, Dawn Wilber is ready to cut the blackberry upside-down cake for those still hungry enough for dessert after the feast. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now) 

Andrew Pirrung, a secondary science teacher, and his friend Bob Bultman, an ecological restorationist -- both of Door County, Wisconsin -- were able to do just day 3, July 4, of paddling with the Canoe Journey. They both had commitments afterwards but camped with the group and enjoyed the experience. Pirrung, who has also been an environmental scientist on remediation sites, sent his comments on the trip in the following video.

 

Andrew Pirrung, a secondary science teacher from Door County, Wis., speaks about his experience paddling with the Menominee River Canoe Journey to call attention to threats from the proposed Back 40 gold mining project. (Video © Andrew Pirrung)

 

July 5, day 4 on the river

 

On Sunday, July 5, the group prepared to set out from the Draze property for their final destination -- the Bear statue at Menekaunee Harbor.

 

Early that morning at camp, Wayne Swett was already at work on the dugout canoe and offered some comments on the progress to Keweenaw Now.

 

 

Wayne Swett, co-organizer annual Menominee River Canoe Journey,  spent about a month working to create a traditional dugout canoe from a pine log. Here he comments on the project in an interview with Keweenaw Now at the camp for the journey on July 5, 2026. (Video by Keweenaw Now) 

 

While waiting for the van to drive the paddlers back from camp to pick up their canoes and kayaks at the Draze home, some of the participants spoke with Keweenaw Now about the trip so far.

 

The three O'Halloran brothers and Maggie -- coming from three different states -- were the newest group who joined the Canoe Journey for the first time and completed all four days. They spoke to Keweenaw Now about their impressions.

 

On July 5, before setting out on the fourth and final day of the Menominee Journey, Peter, Brian and Kevin O'Halloran and Brian's wife Maggie tell Keweenaw Now why they decided to come together and do the four-day Menominee Canoe Journey. They also note what they liked about the trip. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

 

Gilbert Boivin (Andy), a veteran and member of the Menominee Nation, explained why he has returned to do the trip several times.

 

Gilbert Boivin (Andy), of Keshena, Wis., a veteran and member of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, speaks with Keweenaw Now about his participation several times in the Menominee River Canoe Journey. (Video by Keweenaw Now)  

Andy's canoe partner during the trip was Christine Fossen-Rades, science teacher at Menominee Nation High School in Keshena, Wis. Christine has also done the Canoe Journey for several years.

Andy and Christine display the Protectors of the Menominee River flag on their canoe. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now). 

Christine, of DePere, Wis., who has worked in education for 34 years, teaches integrated science -- i.e., science and culture -- at the Menominee Nation High School, which is 60 miles from her home. She commutes 120 miles a day and plans to continue doing it.

"The kids are worth it," Christine tells Keweenaw Now.

In addition, she takes students to events related to science, the environment, and Native American culture that are often far from home.

Christine Fossen-Rades is pictured here on the Menominee River Canoe Journey. (Photo courtesy Christine Fossen-Rades)

Recently Christine and her students participated in the National Geographic Photo Camp for Wisconsin, which was held at the same location as the camp for the Menominee River Canoe Journey -- the Chappee Rapids Weber Learning Center -- so that they could document the making of the dugout canoe by Protectors of the Menominee River.

The National Geographic Photo Camp is held around the world focusing on providing indigenous youth the knowledge and scope of using cameras and encouraging them to tell their story through photography.

"The students were excited to receive their cameras and the knowledge from National Geographic experts, including photographers, journalists, photo editors and writers," Christine noted. "The students documented not only the building of the canoe but elders visiting the site and the specific location where their elders had once spent many hours. The students gained a respect for the traditional ecological knowledge that their ancestors held while participating in a once in a lifetime event."

Two National Geographic photographers observe the dugout canoe being constructed during the National Geographic Photo Camp attended by students from Menominee Nation High School. (Photo © Christine Fossen-Rades)

The students' final project can be seen at the Menominee Cultural and Logging Museum in Keshena, Wis.

"National Geographic has been instrumental in showing our kids and teaching our kids that they have a voice while empowering them to make change in their community, just as the Protectors of the Menominee River are fighting the Back 40 mine," Christine added.

Some of Christine's students also participated in the Menominee River Canoe Journey following the photo camp.

Bella (Isabella) Wilber, a student of Christine Fossen-Rades and Dawn Wilber's grand-niece, who is an excellent swimmer and paddler, also participated in this year's Menominee River Canoe Journey. Two other students of Christine's -- Bella's sister Aurora and a friend, Ashlyn (not pictured) -- also participated in the Canoe Journey. (Photo © Christine Fossen-Rades) 

As participants in the Canoe Journey started out on the river on Day 4, another eagle must have been spotted judging by the greeting shouted at the end of this video clip.

Canoers and kayakers enjoy rather calm waters and little wind on day 4 as they begin the final day of paddling. (Video © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

 
One highlight of the last day was the rest stop at camp along the way. A few new participants joined for the final paddle.

 

On July 5 canoers and kayakers stop at the camp for a short rest and visit on the way to their final destination. The dugout canoe, still being worked on, can be seen near the shore. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

While the wind and waves were calm as the canoes and kayaks approached the harbor for the arrival, one challenge remained -- an area in the river we thought was a "short cut" to avoid boat traffic. Instead it was a large, shallow wetland of lily pads choked with algae and weeds that took some sloggy maneuvering with paddles.

 

"Where is that channel?" It took a while to find it through this "short cut."

 

Following a final portage, paddlers finally reached the Menekaunee Harbor and rejoiced at the completion of the Journey. Tina Lesperance was on hand to record the arrival.

 

Canoers and kayakers in the Menominee River Canoe Journey arrive at their destination -- the Bear at Menekaunee Harbor, Menominee, MI, on July 5, 2026. (Video by Tina Lesperance)

 

The group of canoers, kayakers and supporters paused for photos at the Bear.

 

Participants and supporters of the 2026 Menominee River Canoe Journey join together at the ancestral Bear, Menekaunee Harbor, Menominee, Mich. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Ann Marie Oshkosh (seated, third from left), camp cook on the Journey, poses with a group of young people who offered their help to her at camp. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Co-organizers, from left, Dawn Wilber and Wayne Swett greet supporters during the arrival celebration at the Bear. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

 

Back in the camp on July 5, Dawn Wilber took time to speak with Keweenaw Now about her impressions of this year's Menominee Canoe Journey.

On July 5, following the completion of the 2026 Menominee River Canoe Journey, co-organizer Dawn Wilber comments on some memorable aspects of this year's journey. (Video by Keweenaw Now) 

 

During cleanup at the camp on the evening of July 5, Laureen Kaprelian of Wallace, Mich., a board member of the Menominee Historical Society, who has been instrumental in arranging for the camp site at the Historical Society's Chappee Rapids Weber Learning Center, spoke with Keweenaw Now about about the increase in awareness of this year's Menominee River Canoe Journey and about participants who discovered historical family connections with the location.

 

Laureen Kaprelian of the Menominee Historical Society, speaks with Keweenaw Now about the uniqueness of this year's Canoe Journey. (Video by Keweenaw Now)  

For another week, Wayne, and Dawn -- along with firekeepers Brett and Ron and other helpers -- worked putting the final touches on the dugout canoe, which they finally launched on the river on Wednesday, July 15.

  

Firekeepers Ron and Brett stayed overnight on July 5 to work on the dugout. Here they are seen scraping the charred walls with clam shells from the Menominee River. Click here for a video showing a closeup of their work. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

Jwin Zillier, one of the three original canoers (along with Wayne Swett and Dawn Wilber) during the first Menominee canoe trip in 2019, helps with sanding the dugout during the final week of the construction. Jwin has also worked as the driver of the van during several of the Menominee canoe journeys. (Photo courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

 

On July 15, just a month after the dugout construction began, Menominee tribal members launched it from the camp. The dugout has been named Maeqtekōsukiw (Dugout canoe woman).

 

Tribal members work together to launch the new dugout canoe into the Menominee River on July 15, 2026. Click here for the video. (Screenshot and video courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River) 

 

Menominee tribal members Maxx Barns, left, and Cedar Fernandez paddle the new dugout on July 15. (Screenshot courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

 

Menominee tribal members assist Oralann Caldwell, tribal elder, (seated) who recently injured her foot, into the new dugout on July 15. Oralann had also paddled a canoe during the Canoe Journey with her grandson, Bryce, pictured above on day 1. (Screenshot courtesy Protectors of the Menominee River)

 

After working on the dugout for a month until its completion, Wayne Swett celebrated the launch of the new dugout canoe -- a historic event for the Menominee people -- by paddling the dugout with Dawn Wilber up the river on July 15.

 

Wayne Swett and Dawn Wilber, co-organizers of the Menominee River Canoe Journey, paddle the new dugout canoe after its launch on July 15, 2026. (Photo © and courtesy Laureen Kaprelian) 

"The Ancestors are very happy, the eagles stayed and watched, fish was happily jumping and the Menominee River welcomed her with open arms!" Wayne said. "It's a huge weight off my shoulders too." 
 

Dawn Wilber is pictured here while paddling the new dugout canoe with Wayne Swett on July 15. Her comment on the photo: "Do I look happy! It’s because due to a lot of hard work the vision is complete. The spiritual and emotional aspects were so amazing." (Photo © Amelia Schafer of Indian Country Today)**

The need to protect the Menominee River and nearby cultural sites continues since the July 2, 2026, merger of Back 40 mine owner Gold Resource Corp. (GORO) and Goldgroup Mining, Inc.***

Editor's Notes:

 

* See the June 28, 2023, Keweenaw Now article, "Menominee cultural site listed on National Register of Historic Places." 

** See the July 2, 2026, Indian Country Today (ICT) article, "Making history on the Menominee River," by Amelia Schafer. See also her follow-up article, "'We made history’: Dugout launch first in recent memory." 

*** For financial information on the Back 40 mine see the June 24, 2026, article "Dormant but not dead: financial deal could boost Back Forty prospects," by Mark Doremus, on The 906 Report.

Updated: Protectors of all ages complete 7th annual Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey

 By Michele Bourdieu

On July 3, 2025, Day 1 of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey, paddlers Dawn Wilber, co-organizer, and Izabella (Bella) Wilber display the Protectors of the Menominee River flag on their canoe. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

MENOMINEE RIVER -- Four days -- 48 miles -- with the Protectors of the Menominee River in canoes and kayaks -- that was our goal for the July 4th, 2025, weekend. After kayaking just the first day of the trip in 2024, Keweenaw Now decided to do the entire trip this year, July 3-6, in the same tandem kayak generously lent to us by Dean Juntunen of Mass City. 

And the weather cooperated -- with the exception of a rain storm one night that left some campers with soggy tents! However, their complaints were few since everyone shared the goal of paddling all four days if possible. On July 3, participants, young and older, launched their canoes and kayaks near the 60 Islands site of the ancient Menominee burial grounds, gardens and dance rings -- Anaem Omot (Dog's Belly), a Menominee Tribe cultural landscape bisected by the Menominee River that separates Wisconsin and Michigan. The site, which was nominated for the National Register of Historic Places by the Historic Preservation Review Boards of both Wisconsin (2021) and Michigan (2022), was approved for that listing by the National Park Service in 2023.*

View of the Menominee River near ancient garden beds at one of the Menominee cultural sites nominated for the National Register of Historic Places. (Keweenaw Now file photo) 

The main goal of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journeys, held now for seven years, is to call attention to the need for protecting the river and those sacred sites from the threat of the Back 40 mining project for gold, copper, zinc and lead -- a sulfide mine that could be built very close to the river and these sacred sites.

This year's canoe/kayak trip was especially notable for the presence of a group of young paddlers who had great fun shooting water guns and cooling off both on the water and during the "swim stops." They also joined in counting the wildlife observed during the trip -- from eagles, osprey and heron to turtles, a pair of porcupines and a number of woodducks. The kids had fun while learning.

Co-organizer and teacher Dawn Wilber noted, "Our kids are so respectful to others out here." 

Young participants in the Menominee Canoe Journey enjoy a friendly water fight during one of the swim stops. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Day 1: July 3 

On July 3, 2025, Dawn Wilber, co-organizer with Wayne Swett of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey, welcomed Anahkwet (Guy Reiter), executive Director of a Menominee Indian community organization called Menīkānaehkem, Inc., to speak to the participants in the journey before the Day 1 launch near the 60 Islands cultural site.

As participants in the 2025 Menominee Canoe Journey prepare to launch canoes and kayaks near the 60 Islands cultural site on Day 1 of the trip, Dawn Wilber, second from right, introduces Anahkwet (Guy Reiter), center, Menominee community activist, to speak some inspirational words to the group. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Reiter spoke about historical places along the river. He also noted the power of the river to help and guide us and the need for its protection.

"When you're in your canoe the river is holding you and having a relationship with you, and it's been doing that for 1,000 years for our people," Reiter said. 

Co-organizer Wayne Swett commented on Facebook that, as Guy Reiter spoke, an eagle sat in a tree, waiting. Swett said the group checked out two eagle's nests on Day 1 of the trip. 

"One of the participants found a white tail feather! Good find," Swett noted.

One of the first of many eagles spotted on the trip seems to supervise the canoes and kayaks setting out on Day 1, July 3. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

"We do this [journey] to show our existence and re-connection to our Creation place," co-organizer Dawn Wilber commented on Facebook. "Also to show our opposition to the proposed sulfide mine."

Canoes and kayaks set out on Day 1 from the launch site. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

"Enjoyed the quietness on the Menominee River listening to birds singing, looking for wildlife and reconnecting," Wayne Swett commented on Day 1. "Checked out the mouth of the Pike River, which is historic in its own self."

On Day 1 of the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Trip, Dawn Wilber, co-organizer, paddles ahead with her grand-niece, Izabella (Bella) Wilber to lead the group. They stopped often to observe and photograph eagles and other wildlife. (Video © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Another eagle spotted on Day 1 keeps an eye on the paddlers. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

"When we are on that river, we are always looking for the Eagles --  looking in the trees, looking on the ground, looking in the water," Dawn Wilber commented on Facebook. 

During the swim stops, Hunter Peters loved taking photos of people, sometimes candid or amusing. On Day 1 he captured (or set up) a photo of the co-organizers:

Wayne Swett's Facebook comment on this photo: "Standing guard! Lol." (Photo © and courtesy Hunter Peters)

Day 2: July 4

Wayne Swett reported that Day 2 began with a visit from neighbors, who live near the camp.

"Started out the day with breakfast and a visit from the neighbors who lived bout a mile away," Swett said. "Fed 'em breakfast and visited. They had some beautiful huskies." 

On Day 2, neighbors visit the camp during breakfast. Ann Marie Oshkosh (Annie), second from left, is the cook. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett.)

Swett spent Day 2 fishing, according to his comments on Facebook: "Been wanting to do some fishing on these trips but was always busy so I decided to skip the paddling part and spend the day at camp fishing since this was a short day for the paddlers. Sat in the shade and put a nightcrawler in the water. I haven't been fishing in 10 yrs so I was enjoying it. Lol."

He was pretty relaxed that day and agreed to an interview by Keweenaw Now.

Wayne Swett, co-organizer of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey for 7 years, speaks with Keweenaw Now about the new campsite for this year's trip -- the Chappee Webber Learning Center, located on the river and made possible by the generosity of the Menominee Historical Society. He also notes the educational as well as the entertainment value for the young people on the trip. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Wayne Swett cools off during one of the swim stops. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Weather on July 4 was good again for paddlers on the river.

Canoes and kayaks head down the Menominee River on the second day of the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Dawn Wilber posted on Facebook these comments on July 4: "Day 2 in the books! Short run today but not short of fun! Half way done and half way to go! I will do this run as long as I can get in these canoes. This place is so relaxing and peaceful. Sitings count today: 7 Eagles, 1 Hawk, 1 Turtle, 2 Jumping fish, 4 Swim spots...."

Sometimes the group could stop on a sandbar for a swim or lunch, tying the boats together. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Wilber also spoke with Keweenaw Now on Day 2.

Dawn Wilber, co-organizer of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journeys for the past 7 years, speaks about the new camp site and some of the purposes of the canoe journeys -- protecting the river from the proposed Back 40 sulfide mine, educating young participants and offering her people an opportunity to connect with others and with the place their ancestors called home. (Video by Keweenaw Now) 

One of the young people on the trip for the first time this year was Gracey Chaltry, whose mother, Regina Chaltry, has made the trip almost every year. On July 4, Gracey gave her impressions of the trip so far.

Gracey Chaltry tells Keweenaw Now why she is participating in the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey with her mother and what she plans to study in the future. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Gracey Chaltry and her Mom, Regina Chaltry, enjoy canoeing together during the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Back at the camp, Ann Marie Oshkosh (Annie) the cook, prepared breakfast and dinner each day, cooking on a campfire near the dining pavilion with the help of volunteers when they were available. The main dishes of the meals are Menominee traditional foods including buffalo or venison or elk, walleye for the fish fry on Friday, boiled vegetables (including potatoes, carrots, corn on the cob, green beans, squash and parsnips), and her special wild rice with berries. 

Annie Oshkosh cooks wild rice for a traditional salad of wild rice and berries. Regina Chaltry is ready to assist her. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

Kyle Pecore stops by to help Annie by stirring the wild rice. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Another helper of Annie's, who also worked as a firekeeper and more, is Joe Moses, who occasionally took a break from his duties to play his flute.

Joe Moses takes a brief musical break while waiting for launch time. Joe was extremely helpful to all the paddlers in delivering canoes and kayaks each day and assisting with many duties at the camp. (Video by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Joe Moses displays several of his indigenous flutes at the camp and explains some to Kyle Pecore and Regina Chaltry. (Photo by John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now)

Two of the busiest people during the Journey -- sisters Dawn Wilber and Annie Oshkosh -- still found a few moments to sing a welcome song at camp.

During a brief break from their duties at the camp during the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey, Annie Oshkosh, chief cook, and Dawn Wilber, co-organizer, sing a welcoming song in the Menominee language. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Musician John Peiffer also took advantage of some free time at camp to sing and play some music.

During a relaxing moment at camp, John Peiffer plays a song inspired by last year's Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey, "Words Fail."** (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Day 3: July 5

On Day 3, rain threatened but the storm didn't arrive until evening, when some campers' tents got soaked.

Early that day the firekeepers were concerned about keeping the fire going in case of rain.

Dave Oshkosh, the chief firekeeper, is pictured here with the sacred fire that must be kept burning day and night throughout the four-day journey. Notice the turtle shape of the fireplace. (Photo by Keweenaw Now) 

Ron Dickie, one of Dave the firekeeper's helpers, adds wood to the sacred fire on July 5. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Co-organizer Wayne Swett commented on the fire preparation before the rain. 

"Under the watchful eyes of Dave and myself, Ron Dickie stacked wood on our sacred fire to protect the the heart of the fire as the storm approached," Swett wrote. "That fire did not go out during that storm. Everything and everybody got wet but the fire stayed the course, horse!" 

Swett admitted he forgot to close the window flaps on his tent.

"Mattress was half floating and as usual everything got wet," he wrote on Facebook. "You might want to call it a Water Protector baptismal of sorts. Not the first time and I doubt the last time. It's part of camping."

At the camp on Day 3, Keweenaw Now interviewed two more participants -- Christine Fossen-Rades, a teacher at the Menominee Indian High School in Keshena, Wis., and Kyle Pecore of Keshena, a student there -- about their reasons for joining the canoe/kayak journey.

Christine Fossen Rades, who teaches science and archaeology at the Menominee Indian High School in Keshena, Wis., speaks about her reasons for participating in the canoe trip each year and her project-based teaching and learning experiences with her students. (Video by Keweenaw Now) 

Christine Fossen-Rades enjoys a swim stop during the canoe journey. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Kyle Pecore of Keshena, Wis., who paddled a kayak during the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Trip, tells Keweenaw Now about his many kayaking experiences and his enjoyment of this trip. (Video by Keweenaw Now)   

Kyle Pecore paddles his kayak, always alert to spot an eagle or other wildlife. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Paddlers had a shorter day on July 5 but still enjoyed 2 swim stops and observed a variety of wildlife. According to Dawn Wilber, they counted 9 Eagles, 2 Herons, 1 Porcupine, 2 Deer, 2 Jumping fish, and 1 Turtle.

One of the blue Herons Dawn Wilber observed. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber) 

At one of the swim stops Hunter Peters tries to dunk Dawn, but they are evenly matched. However, Dawn claims she dunked Hunter every time he tried this! (Photo courtesy Hunter Peters)

Hunter's two canoe partners, his nieces Leilani (smiling in foreground) and Lizzie, don't seem to mind his antics at the swim stops. (Photo © and courtesy Hunter Peters)

After a portage at Turtle Nation the canoes and kayaks took off from McAllister Bridge for the home of Ed (Buff) and Sally Draze.

Canoes and kayaks launch from McAllister Bridge. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

The water level allowed a scenic paddle between the twin islands, Bella and Aurora, named for Bella Wilber and her twin sister.

Paddling through the twin islands, participants enjoy one of the scenic routes on Day 3. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

With the rain storm coming, the group had to get out of the water earlier than usual; and the paddlers, canoes and kayaks were driven to Buff and Sally Draze's house, where Ann Marie Oshkosh, the cook, created some traditional dishes to share.

The early landing was at a park that turned out to be a great swim stop for the kids as well.

The younger paddlers meet the challenge of climbing a steep, sandy hill with canoes and kayaks at their early stop in a park to be safe from the threatening storm on July 5. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

The kids dash into the water with just enough time for a swim to cool off at the park. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

This group photo was taken in the park where the group stopped on July 5 because of the storm warnings. Dawn Wilber noted this group shot was important to include a few of the paddlers who would be unable to continue participating on the final day. (Photo courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Canoes, kayaks and paddlers were welcomed by signs at the Draze property, where the boats were stored overnight for the launch on the fourth and final day.

Welcome signs at the home of Ed and Sally Draze. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)
 

Ed (Buff) and Sally Draze offer their hospitality to the Canoe Journey participants at dinner time. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

"Since we live on the Menominee River we really appreciate all that the Menominee Nation does to promote an awareness of keeping our river safe from the perils of mining," Sally Draze told Keweenaw Now. "This year we were honored to host a feast that Ann Marie Oshkosh prepared for the last night of their annual canoe trip on the Menominee. We invited additional mutual friends to cheer them on their mission. Some of their supporters were not able to make the event due to the storm that came along. Fortunately the canoes and kayaks arrived just before the storm hit.

"The gathering filled our home wall to wall with people, both young and old. The fellowship was wonderful with great camaraderie along with fabulous food! New memories and new friendships were made, and we look forward to supporting our friends again next year."

In Sally Draze's kitchen, chef Ann Marie Oshkosh, left, is pictured here with Sally, center, and Dawn Wilber, following the dinner Ann Marie prepared for the Canoe Journey participants and supporters on July 5, 2025, Day 3 of the journey. (Photo © John Peiffer for Keweenaw Now) 

For the dinner at the Draze home, Ann Marie (Annie) cooked an array of delicious cultural foods -- using elk, beans and corn, including a delicious meatless hullcorn (Mandan bride variety) soup with red beans.

Day 4: July 6 

Paddlers pause for a group photo with Sally and Buff Draze before setting out on July 6, the fourth and final day of the journey, and heading for their destination -- the Bear at Menekaunee Harbor. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Journey participants prepare to launch their canoes and kayaks from the Draze property on the river the morning of July 6 following a rain storm the night before. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

On the way to the final stop at the Bear, the group made a brief stop at the new base camp, where the paddlers joined staff members there for a group photo.

Proud of their designation as "Riff Raff for the River,'' the group pauses on Day 4 at the base camp for a photo. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

The next important stop was Menominee Island, an island in the river that local resident Tom Boerner gifted to the Menominee nation. Boerner has been involved in challenging the Part 632 mining permit for the Back 40 mine.

Gilbert Boivin Sr. (Andy), in foreground, is pictured here with the group during the stop on Menominee Island. "Third time I have stood on the Menominee Island on the Menominee River!" he said proudly. (Photo © and courtesy Gilbert Boivin Sr.)  

Christine Fossen-Rades enjoys a relaxing break among the interesting Menominee Island vegetation, including milkweed. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Dawn Wilber discovered an "empty" turtle shell on Menominee Island.

 

"Found this just sitting here," Dawn writes of this turtle shell. "No longer in this world and what was spectacular is, when I touched the underside of it, it felt like a heartbeat. Others felt it too." (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber) 

 

Following a portage at Cox Landing, the last leg of the journey was somewhat easier because of a passage that took them out of the wind for a while. They passed an area where woodducks gathered, and some spotted an Egret in another location on the river, which was unusual. 

 

Paddlers notice an Egret flying just above the water. According to Dawn Wilber, an Egret would normally be observed only on an island near the end of the river. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

The last stretch to reach the Bear at Menekaunee Harbor was the most challenging of the trip.

 

Wayne Swett writes, "This is where teamwork comes into play as you're paddling against a strong wind coming off Lake Michigan. A test of your stamina to reach that train trestle which is the point of calmer water. After that it's not miles but yards! One last push against the wind and year 7 is in the books!"

Paddlers fight the wind as they approach the landing at the Bear. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Rocks right near the landing at the Bear were another obstacle to overcome in the wind!

Cedar Fernandez and Jeremiah Moses (TJ) maneuver their canoe around the rocks near the landing. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett) 

We made it! (Photo courtesy Michele Bourdieu) 

Photos in front of the Bear, the statue that represents the origin of the Menominee people, are in order as soon as kayaks and canoes are unloaded. 

Paddlers with their supporters and staff pause for a group photo at the Bear on July 6, 2025, the seventh year of the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. (Photo courtesy Dawn Wilber) 

From right, Dawn Wilber, Wayne Swett and Jwin Zillier -- the three who made the first Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey in 2018.* See interview with Jwin below. (Photo courtesy Wayne Swett) 

Pictured here on Day 4, co-organizers Dawn Wilber and her "buddy" Wayne Swett are ready to plan next year's Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey. (Photo courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Following a tradition, participants are greeted by supporters who join them for a great meal at Applejack's Restaurant in Marinette, Wis.

At Applejack's, paddlers, staff and friends celebrate the seventh annual Canoe Journey completion. (Photo courtesy Dawn Wilber)

Back at the base camp, as campers packed up their tents, Keweenaw Now asked a few more participants to share their impressions of the Canoe Journey.

Jwin Zillier, one of the original three Menominee on the Menominee to make the journey -- with Dawn Wilber and Wayne Swett -- took on the role of van driver this year.

On the final day of the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Trip, Jwin Zillier, one of the three Menominee tribal members who paddled the first trip 7 years ago, speaks about her new role this year as the van driver for the group. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Laureen Kaprelian of Wallace, Mich., a board member of the Menominee Historical Society, was instrumental in arranging for the new camp site the Society generously donated for this year's Canoe Journey.

Taking a break from helping with cleanup at the camp site on July 6, Laureen Kaprelian -- a board member of the Menominee Historical Society, which offered the use of their Chappee-Webber Learning Center property as a campsite for the Canoe Journey participants -- speaks about the history of the property, which was the site of the first trading post on the Menominee River. Laureen and her son Tom both paddled kayaks during the Journey. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

This tombstone near the camp site commemorates Louis Chappee (Chaput) (1766-1856), a noble Frenchman, who was an explorer and the first trader on the Menominee River. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)
 

Laureen Kaprelian paddles her kayak during the 2025 Journey on the Menominee. (Photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)

During the 2025 Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey, Thomas Duncanson, son of Laureen Kaprelian, paddles his kayak, followed by several canoes. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett) 

Jeremiah Moses (TJ) told Keweenaw Now how he and his partner, Cedar Fernandez, became interested in the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey and continue to participate.

Jeremiah Moses (TJ) introduces himself in the Menominee language, which he studies and teaches, and speaks about his participation in the Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journeys along with his partner, Cedar Fernandez. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Jeremiah Moses and Cedar Fernandez are here with their canoe as they prepare to launch from the Draze property on Day 4, for the final destination at the Bear. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett) 

Cedar Fernandez, who was recuperating from bee stings after the final paddle on Day 4, was unavailable for an interview with Jeremiah, but sent Keweenaw Now her thoughts about the trip:

"Waqsepāēkacīwen eneq ekāēyan mesek Cedar Fernandez eneq āēs wīhseyan. Netōmāēqnomenēwem.

Waqsepāēkacīwen is what the spirits call me and Cedar Fernandez is what I am named. I am Menominee. I use Wenah, She, and They as my pronouns," Cedar writes.

"This was my third year on the Menominee River Canoe Journey with fellow Protectors of the Menominee River. Each year that I have been on this journey, I have come to feel more love and appreciation for Menominee river. From the creation stories that ground us in these places, to animals, plants, ancestors, rocks, soils, and waters who remind us of them. Eagle, Crane, Sturgeon, Turtle, Deer, Tree, and more Relatives who show up in the sky, on the ground, and in the water to say, 'Posoh-Hi,' reminding us of our stories and creating more with us. They take so much care of us, and we do our best to take care of them.

"I know I am home on our river.

"I remember who we are while being present with who we are now. We aren’t separate from our relations who came before us, we live with them and they live with us.

"Through four days of laughter, love, and learning, I am always wishing I can stay on Menominee river longer -- and I just can’t wait for next year!

"I want to say waewaenen (thank you) to all of our Relatives who joined us this journey. I so appreciate each of you for everything you bring and do in support and in working together to make things happen. I appreciate the community space we make and share through our journeys. We teach each other so much. I look forward to continuing to learn from one another and continuing to be a part of this sacred community space we carry as we connect with our beautiful Menominee River.

"Ketāpānenaemuaw (I love you all)." 

 Editor's Notes:

* See the Keweenaw Now June 28, 2023, article, "Menominee cultural site listed on National Register of Historic Places." See also the Wisconsin Public Radio July 2 (updated July 17), 2025, article, "Archaeologists make surprising discovery along the Menominee River on Wisconsin border," about the Dartmouth study of ancient raised garden beds at the 60 Islands site -- using lidar technology.

** See the Keweenaw Now August 8, 2024, article, "Protectors of the Menominee River, opponents of proposed Back 40 sulfide mine, complete 6th Annual Menominee on the Menominee Canoe Journey." A video of John Peiffer singing his song "Words Fail" at the Aura Jamboree is included in the article.

This year's Canoe Journey inspired a new song, "Earth, Water, Sky," which he sang at the July 2025 Aura Jamboree.