There is nothing more organic and authentic than the feel of the birchbark canoe as it dances over the glassy surface on a misty morning paddle. All materials of bark canoes are traditionally harvested and are truly a product of craftsmanship, historical ingenuity and art.

This year the Grand River Community Metis Council is having a raffle for a birchbark canoe that was crafted using only traditional tools and methods by canoe builder and Métis artist Marcel Labelle.

The 14-foot canoe was built out of a birch tree that was hit by lightning and has been appropriately named, Niimki (Lightning Spirit). It’s valued at $9,900.

This is your chance to own your own birchbark canoe—a piece of history! Tickets are $20 each. The Draw date is June 5^th, 2010. Only 2499 tickets will be sold. To purchase a ticket, go to http://www.grandrivermetiscouncil.com/birch-bark-canoe-raffle.html.

And hey if you don’t win, learn to build your own by checking out Ray Mears videos on our video site: www.canoerootsmag.com/videos/