U.S. Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement on the Department of the Interior’s announcement today that it will review Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument:

“I believe this review is unnecessary and only reignites controversy in a region that was beginning to heal and move forward. The designation was made following substantial public input that spanned the course of several years – all of which helped to create a monument that was specifically tailored to honor Maine traditions, which is why recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling were all permitted. 

“Furthermore, the monument has already begun to yield real economic benefits to the region, and has done so with no negative impact on Maine's forest products industry. I am deeply concerned that this review will stifle that progress by threatening future investments and hampering economic growth when it is needed there now more than ever before.

“If there is anything good to come of this review, I hope it will be that the widespread public support for the monument in the region and throughout Maine will become clear so that this question can be settled once and for all, and we can allow the monument to continue to serve as one important part of a multifaceted economic revitalization strategy for the region.”

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