Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument anniversary

Welcome to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, where dense woodlands and pristine waterways stretch out as far as the eye can see. Covering nearly 87,500 acres, this monument was established on this day in 2016. The region played a significant role in Maine's logging industry for over a hundred years, but towards the end of the 19th century, this activity began to decline. Efforts to preserve the landscape we see here today were spearheaded by philanthropist Roxanne Quimby. She and her foundation started purchasing land near Baxter State Park in 2001 and donated it to the federal government in 2016, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Katahdin Woods and Waters' diverse ecosystem provides a home for a variety of fauna, including moose, black bear, and Canada lynx, as well as numerous bird species like bald eagle and wood duck. It offers many outdoor activities for visitors, such as hiking, canoeing, and camping. The monument has some of the darkest skies in the country due to the lack of electrical lighting in its vast expanse, making it a great place for stargazing.
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