On behalf of the Northern Forest Alliance, a coalition of more than 40 organizations dedicated to the protection and stewardship of the region, I would like to thank Maine’s congressional delegation for their strong leadership on, and support for, federal land conservation funding.

Sen. Olympia Snowe led the effort in support of the Conservation Trust Fund, and signed a letter to her colleagues in support of $150 million for the Forest Legacy Program. Sen. Susan Collins also strongly supported both programs.

Rep. Tom Allen sponsored and circulated a letter in support of $150 million for Forest Legacy, and Rep. Mike Michaud also backed this program.

Maine is facing unprecedented changes in the ownership of our North Woods. With the help of our lawmakers, we won’t lose what matters in the shuffle. We can protect special places like the Katahdin Forest, the Machias River region, the Down East lakes, and the Appalachian Trail’s 100-mile wilderness for the enjoyment of future generations. So, thank you to Maine’s congressional leaders, who have once again stepped up to conserve the natural places on which Maine’s people, communities and ecosystems depend.

Catherine B. Johnson

Chair, Maine Caucus

Northern Forest

Alliance

Augusta