Bell Canoe Works had a busy year in 2003 with community involvement, sponsorships, and awards. Meanwhile, the rapidly growing canoe and paddlesports accessory company continues construction on its new plant. Bell will move into its new home beginning in April.


Dealer of the Year 2003: Midwest Mountaineering


Ted Bell presented the ‘2003 Dealer of the Year’ award to Rod Johnson, owner of Midwest Mountaineering, in a short ceremony at the Bell booth during Outdoor Retailer last August. The Minneapolis retail shop boasts a thorough inventory of Bell products, as well as a topnotch staff who live up to the store’s motto: “Ask us, we’ve been there.” Midwest was recently named one of five “TopShops” by BACKPACKER Magazine.


Donation of Canoe to Friends of the Sherburne NWR


Bell Canoe Works recently donated a Royalex NorthWind for the Friends of the Sherburne NWR’s fundraising efforts in celebration of their 10th anniversary. Friends of Sherburne dedicates its efforts to conservation, community education, and involvement. Bell Canoe is located at the gateway to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. The National Wildlife Refuge System celebrated its centennial in 2003.


Northern Forest Canoe Trail involvement


Bell Canoe Works began its involvement with the Northern Forest Canoe Trail project over two years ago. The NFCT, under the direction of Rob Center, seeks to establish a 740-mile waterway linking the watersheds of northern New England and the Adirondacks. In addition to cash contributions, Bell supplied product for a media trip hosted by NFCT and Mountain Hardwear in September 2003.


Wisconsin Rivers Alliance donation


Partnered with Madison WI dealer Carl and John’s Paddlin’, Bell provided a sponsorship package complete with boat, paddles, and accessories for the annual WI Rivers Alliance banquet held last October. The Wisconsin Rivers Alliance protects Wisconsin waterways and is part of a regional network of conservation efforts supported by Bell Canoe Works.