By Karen Woodsum, Director of the Maine Woods Campaign

Following a flood of comments from Maine Sierrans and other Allagash advocates, the State of Maine and the National Park Service, on February 22, 2002, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on mitigation of the State’s illegal reconstruction of the Churchill Dam in 1998.  The agreement requires that the Maine Department of Conservation close down one access point on the river and move another one at John’s Bridge to at least 500 feet from the water.  In addition, the agreement requires that the current state management plan be opened for review and revision, so that it better reflects the federal guidelines of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

The Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, a pro-motorized access group, vigorously opposed the MOA but a groundswell of support from Maine citizens won the day. Of more than 1400 comments received by the Department of Conservation on the proposal, 90% supported the agreement as a statement for wilderness protection of the Allagash. The National Park Service reported that it had received 600 letters in support of the MOA and a wild Allagash and 50 against.  Sierra Club activists also turned out at hearings held across the state and testified on behalf of the wilderness qualities of the river.

Next Steps: The Allagash will need the vigilant support of wilderness advocates as the State management plan is opened for review and public hearings are held throughout the process.  It’s important to remember that the State of Maine made a commitment 30 years ago to “develop the maximum wilderness character” of the river – and that promise was not realized.  It will take constant public pressure to ensure that this re-commitment is met.  If you are not on the Maine Woods Activist List, and would like to be, please contact the Chapter Office (207) 761-5616.