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U.S.- Canada Border crossing during covid-19

Relationship between the USA and Canada The flags of USA and Canada merged on weathered wood

Hearing reports from conservation officers that there were Americans at their cabins on the Canadian side of border lakes, as well as anglers asking if they can cross into Canada (using Remote Border Crossing permits) to fish in border lakes, I tracked down current information. The most succinct response came from Ed Fowler, patrol agent in charge at the U.S. Border Patrol station in Grand Marais.

“Nonessential cross-border traffic is prohibited,” Fowler said.

In case you need to be hit over the head with a 2×4, fishing is a nonessential activity. 

Fowler urged me to contact U.S. and Canada customs offices for more thorough information. Both offices responded promptly with fact sheets, which are current as of today, March 26. Much thanks to public information officer Jason Givens with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Rebecca Purdy, senior spokesperson of the Canada Border Services Agency. 

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U.S.-Canada Border Temporary Restriction

As of March 21, there is a temporary 30-day restriction on all non-essential travel at the Canada-U.S. border. These temporary measures are for an initial period of 30 days, which may be renewed. All travel of an optional or discretionary nature, such as tourism and recreation, is covered by these measures. Travel by healthy people who have to cross the border to go to work or for other essential purposes, such as medical care, will continue.

Crossing from Canada into the U.S., per U.S. Customs

“Essential travel,” includes, but is not limited to—

 The following travel does not fall within the definition of “essential travel” for purposes of this Notification—

Crossing from the U.S. into Canada, per Canada Border Services Agency (Land/Ferry/Rail/Marine, including private boats)

 Essential Travel Only

 Processing non-Canadian and Exempt Travelers

 Processing Canadian Travelers

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