Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Access Act
Summary
The Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Access Act aims to enhance regional access to the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine. It allows the Secretary of the Interior to acquire additional land within a designated area for inclusion in the National Monument. The Act also addresses the administration of the monument, including provisions for hunting, fishing, gathering of fiddlehead ferns, public education, and forestry.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely expand the boundaries of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. It will also codify certain recreational activities and resource management practices within the monument. This could lead to increased tourism and economic activity in the region.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to the National Monument for recreational activities.
- Potential for economic growth through tourism.
- Preservation of natural resources and cultural heritage.
- Collaboration with local communities and Tribal governments for public education.
- Protection of existing access rights for timber removal.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased traffic and congestion in the area.
- Possible conflicts between recreational users and logging operations.
- Potential limitations on the gathering of fiddlehead ferns if resources are adversely affected.
- Acquisition of land may impact private landowners, although eminent domain is prohibited.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term effects of noncommercial timber harvests.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Property Clause of the U.S. Constitution (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to dispose of and make all needful rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property belonging to the United States. The Act's provisions for land acquisition and management of the National Monument fall under this authority. The emphasis on collaboration with Tribal governments also aligns with the federal government's trust responsibility to Native American tribes.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).