August 18 , 2021 Re : Establishment of the Downeast Maine National Heritage Area To whom it may concern :
Downeast Maine is a unique region where the economy , heritage , and human spirit are closely linked with a natural landscape shaped by glacial advance and retreat , the industrial harvesting of our natural resources , and by the tidal and erosive powers of the sea .
Making a living from wild blueberries , timber , and fisheries has meant that the region has often been buffeted by environmental , political , and economic forces they could not control . And so , the story of this place is one of national significance , as it is a tale of hard working and resourceful communities that have successfully met changes over time like those that face our country today .
Establishment of the Downeast Maine National Heritage Area would help strengthen our communities by helping them to share and take pride in the story of their heritage . It would also support tourism to this economically distressed region as climate changes continue to impact our natural resources economy . Perhaps most importantly , a Downeast Maine NHA would help to support the region ’ s next generation to learn more about the effective stewardship of the unique habitats and natural resources this region still offers . That next generation will need that background as they confront future threats to the nation ’ s wild blueberry barrens , work to protect its last remaining spawning habitat for the endangered Atlantic Salmon , as they strive to develop sustainable aquaculture opportunities that will help support their communities and provide food for the world ’ s growing population .
As a nonprofit collaborative of nine separate nonprofit and educational institutions working in Downeast Maine to ensure that our fisheries support our communities and our communities support their fisheries , the Downeast Fisheries Partnership ( DFP ) is a strong advocate for the establishment of Downeast Maine Natural Heritage Area and we are committed to continuing our work with community leaders , citizens , and other organizations to support it in the decades to come .
Sincerely ,
Robert Wood Downeast Fisheries Partnership Director
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