Trust For Public Land: A Historic Tribal Land Returned

When 31,367 acre of land in the Katahdin region became available for sale, The Trust for Public Land acted quickly to become a temporary owner. Our goal was to partner with the Penobscot Nation to reconnect Wáhsehtəkʷ to the Tribe while creating much-needed southern access to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, in Maine. In September 2026, together with Penobscot Nation, we’re celebrating the completion of the first phase of this ongoing landmark effort. The initial transfer returns 11,297 acres of the total 30,000 acres, to the nation. This milestone advances a broader vision: restoring Penobscot caretaking of their homelands, protecting important forest and salmon habitat, expanding southern access to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, and supporting outdoor recreation and economic opportunity for surrounding communities. Learn MORE.