“The four federally recognized Indigenous Nations in what is now Maine continue to strive for full recognition as sovereign nations, and they have gained many supporters. FSM prioritizes building trust and relationships through increased learning about Wabanaki history and culture. The board and staff actively seek to better understand Wabanaki desires for land access, acknowledgement of Indigenous rights, and return of culturally significant areas. Some on the staff have long-time connections with Tribal citizens, and one board member is a Penobscot Nation citizen. Conservation easement language and project procedures are being updated to include protective measures for Wabanaki cultural sites and to create pathways for Wabanaki access for ceremonial use and the gathering of culturally important materials. When the Wabanaki Nations have an opportunity to acquire land, FSM can assist transactions, including with negotiations and complex mapping. FSM has observed that Wabanaki stewardship of forests leads to less deforestation and greater biodiversity than in many other forests.”
~ Bonnie Newsom, pαnawάhpskewi (Penobscot Nation citizen) and FSM board member
View of ktàtən (Katahdin) from New England Outdoor Center.
