Friends Group Voices Support For National Monument

PRESS RELEASE
March 24, 2017

PATTEN – In light of recent calls to rescind the designation of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, the board of directors of Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters, a nonprofit charitable corporation formed to provide grants and other assistance to the monument, has affirmed its strong support of the monument’s permanent establishment under law and urges all of Maine’s local, state and federal officials to champion the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.

The Friends group believes that the monument:

• Protects and preserves the beauty and ecological and natural features of the area, including the forests, waters, wildlife, and scenic views;
• Protects the historical and cultural legacy of the area;
• Provides a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, wildlife watching, fishing, hunting, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and scenic drives; and
• Helps to reinvigorate the economic vitality of surrounding communities.

The mission of Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters is to preserve and protect the outstanding natural beauty, ecological vitality and distinctive cultural resources of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument and surrounding communities for the inspiration and enjoyment of all generations. The organization is member supported. To join or for more information, go to https://www.friendsofkww.org