S. 282 · Passed Senate · Public Lands and Natural Resources

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Access Act

What it does

Permits the Secretary of the Interior to acquire land or interests in land within the authorized acquisition area by purchase from willing sellers, donation, or exchange, but prohibits use of eminent domain.
Includes any land acquired by the Secretary within the authorized acquisition area into the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument and adjusts the monument boundaries accordingly.
Requires the Secretary to allow hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation on acquired land if those activities existed before acquisition and are consistent with management under the original Proclamation.
Permits hand-gathering of fiddlehead ferns in the National Monument for noncommercial personal use by the general public, subject to limitations if the Secretary determines gathering may adversely affect monument resources.
Authorizes the Secretary to acquire up to 10 acres outside monument boundaries but within the vicinity for administrative sites and visitor facilities, and to enter into agreements with state, tribal, local, and private entities for those purposes.

Feb 10, 2026: Subcommittee Hearings Held

Committee: House Federal Lands Subcommittee