Statement of Catherine B. Johnson at the Governor’s Press Conference Announcing the River Driver’s Agreement

First, I want to thank you, Governor Baldacci, for your leadership on the Allagash issue. 

I also want to thank Commissioner McGowan and Deputy Commissioner Tilberg for your positive and “can-do” attitude towards resolving the issues around the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.  This agreement would have never happened without you.

This Agreement is a victory for the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.  It is an opportunity for a fresh start to take meaningful action to enhance the wilderness character of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

Over the last couple of days, people have asked me:  “What is most significant aspect of this Agreement?”

I believe the most significant aspect of this Agreement is that it has broken the logjam of controversy that has paralyzed management of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway for at least seven years. It is setting a new course where long distance canoe trippers and fishermen and women from all parts of the state and, indeed, the country, can work together to improve the wilderness character of the Allagash.

The unanimously approved Agreement includes:

• Important management steps like conducting a carrying capacity study and exploring a reservation system;
• Acquisition of a new take-out location with a cultural heritage center in Allagash Village;
• On the ground changes like closing the road south of Ramsey Ledge; and
• A significant commitment to land acquisition to widen the state owned land beyond the 500 foot strip currently owned and to acquire areas such as Indian Pond, Mud Pond Carry, Priestly Mountain and deer yards adjacent to the Waterway as they become available.

We look forward to working with the Administration to implement these and the other improvements in the agreement.