Bill > LD226

This bill directs the Maine Department of Transportation (DOT) to extend existing conservation protections to all currently unprotected lands on Sears Island, working in collaboration with the Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT). Specifically, the bill requires the DOT to take reasonable steps to place the "Transportation Parcel" - a portion of Sears Island previously reserved for potential port development - under the same conservation restrictions as the adjacent lands already protected by a conservation easement established in 2009. The bill mandates that the land management for these areas must be coordinated by an entity nominated by the MCHT and approved by the DOT, with approval to be granted promptly and without unreasonable obstacles. The key goal is to preserve the cultural resources and historical heritage of Sears Island by ensuring comprehensive conservation coverage, effectively preventing future development of the remaining unprotected lands on the island.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=226&snum=132