The MeatEater Podcast Ep. 828: Nonresidents, Wildlife Commissions, and the Boundary Waters | MeatEater Radio Live!
Jan 30, 2026
Jeremy Romero, wildlife conservationist with the National Wildlife Federation who advises on state wildlife commissions. Lukas Leaf, chef and advocate protecting the Boundary Waters and sharing wild-game cooking. They discuss threats from sulfide-ore mining, politics around mineral withdrawals, how to take action, and wild-game shore-lunch recipes. Conversation also covers state wildlife commission roles and how citizens can engage.
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Boundary Waters Are Highly Vulnerable
- The Boundary Waters is a water-rich, interconnected wilderness where sulfide-ore mining near Birch Lake risks inevitable water pollution.
- Hydrologists and local advocates warn contamination would flow through the watershed into Canadian waters and harm fisheries and recreation.
Take Action To Protect The Boundary Waters
- Call your U.S. senators and urge them to oppose the Congressional Review Act resolution undoing the Boundary Waters mining moratorium.
- Join and support conservation organizations and sign action alerts to amplify impact.
Camp-Style Shore Lunches
- Lukas Leaf describes classic shore-lunch traditions: lake trout lightly breaded and fried in bacon grease by the water.
- He also favors fried walleye sandwiches and uses whole-bird techniques for grouse like searing breasts and braising legs.