An ongoing study identifies constraints to water-based recreation among Minnesota’s Black population.
“The North Shore’s beauty is undeniable, but without cultural inclusivity, it feels more like a place to see rather than truly experience.”
That sentiment comes from a Minnesotan who doesn’t feel visitor access is shared by all along Lake Superior’s North Shore.
To address this, the University of Minnesota Extension’s Tourism Center, in collaboration with the University’s Department of Forest Resources and community partners, is working to change that.
Equitable access to water-based recreation
Launched in 2024, this project explores how Black and African American Minnesotans experience and perceive water-based recreation on the North Shore, as well as the challenges they face in accessing these opportunities. Activities include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking shoreline trails and more.
“Our goal is to identify constraints to water-based recreation along the North Shore among Black and African American communities in Minnesota,” says Ami Choi, Extension tourism specialist. “From there, we will work together to create a community-driven action plan for more inclusive experiences.”
Visitor constraints and opportunities
The research team conducted interviews with more than 30 Black and African American participants from the Twin Cities and Duluth who had not participated in water-based recreation at Lake Superior in the past year.
“Participants expressed deep joy and connection to the natural world and ongoing interests in outdoor recreation experiences,” says Choi. “However, they also highlighted constraints.”
Types of constraints participants shared include:
- Individual constraints: Cost, lack of time, limited information about activities, transportation, budget-friendly accommodations and feelings of being unwelcome.
- Interpersonal constraints: Lack of companions and family/work commitments
- Context-specific constraints: Lack of representation in outdoor programs and long travel distances
- Systemic constraints: Historical racism, discrimination and limited transportation options.
To create a more welcoming environment along the North Shore, participants suggested providing clear and accessible information about local events, activities and lodging; incorporating cultural and spiritual connections to Lake Superior through community-led storytelling and guided experiences and ensuring outreach and marketing materials to include and accurately represent Minnesota’s diverse communities, says Choi.
Plans for moving forward
This feedback will inform the research team’s 2025 efforts. “This spring, we plan to share our findings with community partners and outdoor recreation management organizations to inform and co-develop inclusive strategies,” says Choi.
Participants emphasized that inclusive representation in outdoor spaces and programming can help expand access, encourage participation and make the North Shore feel welcoming for everyone.
Minnesota Sea Grant provides funding for the Equitable Access to Recreation along Lake Superior’s North Shore project.
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