PORTLAND — Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) released the following statement on a leaked report from the Department of Interior concerning the future of recently designated National Monuments, including the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.

"The lack of transparency in this entire review process has been extremely concerning—even more so now that Interior Secretary Zinke's report comes out three weeks after it was sent to the President and only after being leaked.

"The recommendation of opening Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument to active timber management creates confusion and unnecessary uncertainty. The National Park Service already has the authority to manage the forest for the resource's health, so this report raises questions about what it really opens the door for. Economic investments are being made in the region right now because the monument is drawing visitors to experience this incredible natural environment. It's foolish to endanger that momentum by leaving unanswered questions about how it will be managed in the future.

"As a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior and the Environment, my concerns also extend to the other monuments specified for changes. It seems that the Administration has decided to put a greater priority on exploiting the natural resources of these special places rather than protecting them for the future."