Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Access Act

This bill, known as the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Access Act, authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire additional land for the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine. The Secretary may acquire land or interests in land within a designated "authorized acquisition area" through purchase from willing sellers, donation, or exchange. Crucially, the use of eminent domain for these acquisitions is explicitly prohibited. Once acquired, these lands will be incorporated into the National Monument, and its boundaries will be adjusted to reflect the expansion. The bill mandates that the Secretary administer the expanded monument in accordance with existing laws and the original proclamation, while also introducing specific management directives. It ensures that hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation activities pre-existing on acquired lands will continue. Furthermore, the bill permits the noncommercial gathering of fiddlehead ferns and directs the Secretary to collaborate on public education regarding the monument's natural and cultural history. Provisions are also included for public safety around logging operations and the potential acquisition of administrative sites and visitor facilities outside the monument boundary.