2024 Superintendent's Compendium of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements and Other Restrictions Imposed Under Discretionary Authority. INTRODUCTION1. Superintendent’s Compendium DescribedThe Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of monument-specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the monument. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level. 2. Laws and Policies Allowing the Superintendent to Develop This CompendiumThe NPS is granted broad statutory authority under 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) Section 1 et.seq. (Organic Act of 1916, as amended) to “…regulate the use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments, and reservations…by such means and measures as conform to the fundamental purposes of the said parks…which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment for future generations” (54 U.S.C. Section 1). In addition, the NPS Organic Act allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “make and publish such rules and regulations as he may deem necessary or proper for the use and management of the parks, monuments, and reservations under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service” (54 U.S.C. Section 3). 3. Consistency of This Compendium with Applicable Federal Law and RequirementsThe Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act. 4. Development of the Requirements of the Superintendent’s CompendiumAs outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:
5. Applicability of the CompendiumThe rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on Federally owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters. 6. Enforcement of Compendium RequirementsNPS Commissioned Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United States Code, 36 CFR, and this Superintendent’s Compendium. 7. Penalties for Not Adhering to the Compendium RequirementsA person who violates any provision of the regulations found in36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. 8. Comments on the CompendiumThe Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The monument welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time. 9. Effective Date of the Superintendent CompendiumThe Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of this document and remains in effect until revised for a period up to one year. 10. Additional InformationSome of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR §1.4 Definitions. 11. AvailabilityCopies of the Compendium are available upon request which can be emailed to Kaww_superintendent@nps.gov . It may also be found HERE. I. CLOSURES AND PUBLIC USE LIMITS36 CFR §1.5 - Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures, and Area Designations for Specific Use or ActivitiesNote: Violations under this section should be cited under §1.5(f) but include the specific compendium section as a subheading on the citation. As always, mandatory appearance citations are an option in lieu of the collateral. (a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument:Visiting Hours:
Determination: To allow for year-round visitor use, monument lands are open to foot traffic by the public to facilitate hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and activities typically accomplished by non-mechanized human power. Construction Site Closure:
Determination: The above closure is being made in the interest of public health and safety during construction and to protect the site from public access as authorized by 36 CFR §1.5 and notified to the public through this electronic compendium under 36 CFR§1.7
[1] Tekαkαpimək is Penobscot for “as far as one can see"- pronounced "de gah-gah bee-mook" Road Closures and Use of Parking areas:
Determination: Monument roads are not designed or maintained for year-round mechanized or motorized vehicle use.
Note: Use by timber management vehicles is permitted without permit for roads listed in the Northern Maine Grant of Crossing Rights (State of Maine Book 9455, #27987). Right-of-ways (ROWs) for timber management vehicles through certain parcels are permitted by deed. Determination: These roads are not built nor maintained for visitor use. Limited administrative use consistent with necessary monument operations is permitted to reduce monument fuel use and to provide maintenance access to monument facilities. Some permittees and cooperators require access to remote sites to accomplish the purposes of their permit. Where authorized in the permit, such use of administrative roads is authorized. However, this use is limited to that required to accomplish the purposes of the permit, work agreement or incident response. Public bicycle use on these roads is permitted with caution.
Determination: The Haskell and Big Spring Brook huts are popular use areas for visitors during the winter season. During the summer season, the huts are used as a base of operations for researchers, hosted workers, and park personnel.
Note: Blocking gates or impeding traffic on roadways is prohibited under 36 CFR §4.13. Determination: Overnight parking is available to accommodate for camping in the Monument. Uncrewed Aircraft (Drones):
Definition: The term "uncrewed aircraft" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce. Determination: While park (monument) managers understand the benefits of limited use of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) for research, for administrative use, and to provide for the public’s safety and welfare, public use of UAS and remote controlled model aircraft for recreational purposes is not a compatible use based upon the purpose of the monument’s establishment, the protection of scenic values, noise, potential conflicts with wildlife, visitors expectation of privacy, potential conflict among visitor use activities, and intrusion on other visitor’s enjoyment of the monument. In cases where UAS use is determined to be less intrusive than alternatives, UAS use will be considered on a case-by-case basis. For additional information, follow this link. Geocaching:
Determination: Due to concerns of unchecked development of traditional geocaches and the resultant development of associated social trails in areas of archeological, scenic, and biological significance, and the concern of geocache placement in unsafe areas, public development of traditional caches is prohibited. Caves:
Determination: To protect bat hibernacula habitat and other natural resources of the monument. Bat species known to occur within Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument are also susceptible to White Nose Syndrome, a disease that has killed millions of bats in North America since 2006. To ensure that threatened and endangered bats, as well as bats which are listed as candidate species, are not disturbed during hibernation or reproduction, it is necessary to protect their habitat from human intrusion. Facility Closures:
Note: Guests and other visitors with a legitimate business purpose are not subject to this restriction.
Determination: Maintenance Facility areas are closed to public presence, use and access, except for individuals conducting administrative business. These closures improve the security of stored equipment and materials and prevent visitor injuries during frequent Filming (Video)
(1) Outdoor filming activities involving five persons or less and equipment that is carried at all times, excepting small tripods used to hold cameras.
Determination: Filming events that involve more than five people and hand carried equipment need to be evaluated to determine if the proposed activity may cause issues with public safety, environment or scenic values, damage to natural or cultural resources, conflict with other visitors and equitable use and access to monument areas. Commercial Still Photography is still covered under 36 CFR 5.5(b) and requires a permit.
Telemetry
Note: The use of telemetry devices on dogs is considered hunting with dogs, which is not permitted. Telemetry used to facilitate the collection of dogs that have entered the monument after being legally released outside monument boundaries for bird retrieval while hunting is not considered hunting. Retrieval of dogs, who inadvertently cross into the monument, is allowed, and owners are encouraged to collect and remove their dogs as soon as possible.
Determination: Radio telemetry and GPS tracking devices are the most efficient method of catching a dogthat has entered the monument. Radio telemetry can also be used to track wildlife or to facilitate a hunt by tracking dogs in pursuit of wildlife. This restriction is intended to address the specific use of telemetry and GPS tracking devices as a means of hunting, which is expressly prohibited within areas closed to hunting within Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.
Snowmobile
Determination: The use of snowmobiles is allowed via the Access Agreement that was accepted by the NPS when they accepted the deeds for the property. Snowmobile routes are over disturbed areas that were used for logging and logging still regularly occurs near these areas outside of monument boundaries. There is no ground disturbance since it is over snow. Adjacent logging operations generate considerable noise so there is no additional noise disturbance.
Camping Areas
Boat Launching Sites
II.PERMITS36 CFR §1.6 – Activities That Require A Permit(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required:
Note: If not indicated under the specific regulation, violations under this section should be cited under the appropriate CFR section or §1.6(g)(1) or (2). III. GENERAL REGULATIONS36 CFR §2.1 – Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources(a)(4) It is unlawful to gather or cut firewood except in the following areas:
Note: In the areas listed above, only dead wood on the ground may be collected for use as fuel for fires at designated campsites within the monument.. Wood may not be removed from the park nor may wood from the park be used for residential heating purposes, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a special permit. (c)(1) & (c)(2), The following fruits, nuts, or berries may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in accordance with the noted size, quantity, collection sites and/or possession and consumption restrictions below:
Note: A “dry gallon” refers to a gallon of uncrushed fruit or berries. 36 CFR §2.2 – Wildlife Protection(a)(1) Tracking wounded wildlife into areas of the park closed to hunting, which was lawfully wounded in areas open to hunting, is prohibited unless accompanied by a commissioned park ranger. The ranger on site may terminate the search if the animal is not located within a reasonable amount of time, as determined by the ranger.Determination: These regulations help to protect against the unlawful taking of wildlife within the park. (a)(2) The feeding, touching, teasing, frightening or intentional disturbing of wildlife nesting, breeding or other activities is prohibited.(b)(2) Hunting is permitted in the monument east of the East Branch of the Penobscot River as indicated in the monument Proclamation, related deeds and conservation agreement. The Hunting Areas Maps are located in Appendices B and C of this document, and online at:https://www.nps.gov/kaww/planyourvisit/upload/Katahdin-Woods-and-Waters-Recreation-Map.pdf.
Note: Where hunting is permitted, use of dogs for retrieval of upland gamebirds is permitted as described in the property deeds. Dogs must otherwise be on a leash per 36 CFR §2.15. Determination: This is a declaration within the property deeds where hunting is permitted.
Determination: Hunting within 300 feet (100 yards) of buildings, campsites and boat launches creates a hazard to public safety. State of Maine law requires 100-yard distance from houses, buildings, and boat launches. (d) The transporting of lawfully taken wildlife through Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is permitted under the following conditions and procedures:Wildlife legally taken in accordance with Monument and State of Maine Hunting Laws and Regulations, and properly tagged and identified, as required by state law, may be transported through the monument by using the following roads:
The above roads are shown on the map in Appendix B of this document and at: (e) Park areas closed to the viewing of wildlife with an artificial light.
Determination: This restriction is established for public safety and protection of wildlife. Artificial light can alter natural habits including mating, resting, and feeding. Artificial light also disrupts the natural darkness of night sky that visitors enjoy. 36 CFR §2.3 – Fishing(a) Fishing is allowed in the monument, in accordance with State of Maine fishing regulations.Determination: Fishing is allowed in the monument as per Maine fishing laws. There are no prohibitions on fishing in the monument Proclamation. 36 CFR §2.4 – Weapons, Traps, and Nets(b)(2)(i) Weapons, traps or nets may only be carried, possessed, or used at the following designated times and locations:
Determination: Trapping is permitted within the Hunt Farm based on uses outlined in the Conservation Easement for that parcel in cooperation with the State of Maine.
36 CFR §2.10 – Camping and Food Storage(a) Camping is permitted in the following locations, with reservations available through Recreation.gov:
Note: Haskell and Big Spring Brook Huts are available for reservation through Recreation.gov from mid-November through mid-March. (b)(9) Conditions set forth by the Superintendent:
Determination: The intent of campsites is to provide for recreational opportunities, not long-term accommodations. Limiting use to 14 consecutive days or 30 days per year provides opportunities for visitors to camp and precludes setting up a permanent camp.
Determination: Limiting capacity of a campsite prevents expansion of the designed footprint or development of satellite sites.
Determination: Soapy runoff and gray water disposal directly on the ground is inconsistent with maintaining a natural park-like environment. Gray water is a waste product that may contain chemicals or other pollutants that may harm the sensitive ecosystem and disrupt natural processes. Showers with catch basins are still challenged to dispose of runoff without impacting the natural environment.
Determination: The purpose of the above limitations is to maintain the appeal of the natural surroundings and to preserve the natural soundscape in the area. Generators left running for any period on occupied or unoccupied vehicles create noise. The exceptions above are made for those vehicles in approved campsites due to the limited and specific times that are set aside for generator use in that area. (d) Conditions for the storage of food, including pet food, are in effect as designated below:
Determination: The above actions help reduce the likelihood of food-conditioned and human-habituated wildlife by reducing wildlife attractants such as food. Following these actions will reduce the potential for negative wildlife-human interactions and improve the safety and well-being of visitors and wildlife. 36 CFR 2.13 – Fires(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
(b) Conditions for extinguishing fires: Any fuel used to light and maintain a fire, including coals and remains, must be cold to touch prior to abandonment.Determination: The Superintendent has determined that these conditions are necessary and the least restrictive means to protect park resources and the public from an unintentional wildlife ignition. (c) Fire Danger Closures, During Maine state-imposed burn bans and periods of high fire danger, the Superintendent may temporarily ban fires, and/or stove use in the monument to protect monument resources and reduce the risk of wildfires. Factors leading to a high risk of unwanted fire spread may prompt the following standard fire restrictions:
Determination: While the NPS seeks to provide opportunities for picnicking throughout the monument, another goal is to prevent wildland fires, and to prevent debris associated with charcoal grills, and to reduce the potential for other resource damage. These protective measures will help to reduce the potential of unwanted fire spread in the monument and onto surrounding public and private lands. 36 CFR §2.14 – Sanitation and Refuse(a) In non-developed areas, solid human waste must be deposited in toilets, buried in a cathole at least 6 inches deep and at least 200 feet from developed areas, packed out in a disposable biodegradable bag toilet system approved for landfill disposal (WAG bag or similar system), or packed out in a self-contained washable, leak-proof, reusable toilet system.Determination: Proper disposal of human waste is intended to reduce threats to public health, the environment, and scenic values.
36 CFR §2.15 – Pets(a)(1) The following structures and/or areas are closed to the possession of pets, except service animals, as noted below:
Service animals are not subject to the park’s pet policies and, when accompanying an individual with a disability, they are allowed wherever visitors are allowed. Emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals are not considered service animals because they have not been trained to perform a specific job or task as described under Policy Memorandum 18-02. Therefore, an emotional support animal is considered a pet under NPS policy. “Electronic” or “shock” collars do not meet the requirements for physical restraint of a pet as required by 36 CFR §2.15(a)(2). All pets must be crated, caged, or restrained on a leash not exceeding six feet in length. (a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:
Determination: Animal waste can adversely affect public health, the environment, and scenic values. Consequently, requiring the public to attend to their pets is a method of mitigating the effects of pet waste on the visitor experience and to the environment. (b) The use of dogs in support of hunting must be in accordance with Federal and State laws and the following conditions:
36 CFR §2.16 – Horses and Pack Animals(b) Horses or pack animals are permitted on the west side of the East Branch Penobscot River, except from the Whetstone Bridge to the Katahdin Loop Road.Determination: Horses and pack animals in the above areas have not been found to be detrimental to monument resources or a hazard to visitors based on compatible roads and trails. (g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:
Determination: Consistent with public health, protection of environmental values and natural resources, and avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities, the Superintendent has determined that restriction of pack animals is necessary. 36 CFR §2.18 – SnowmobilesRefer to §1.5 (a)(2) of this document for detailed snowmobile trail designations. 36 CFR §2.19 – Winter Activities(a) Designated areas for skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding, inner tubing, tobogganing and similar winter sports on park roads and in parking areas open to motor vehicle traffic:
Note: Working dogs, such as sled dogs for commercial activities are allowed under a commercial use authorization on a case-by-case basis. 36 CFR §2.21 – SmokingThe following areas, structures or facilities are closed to smoking and includes vaping or e-cigarettes:
Note: The use of electronic cigarettes and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) are subject to the same restrictions as tobacco smoking and are treated as if they are tobacco products per the December 2010; U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruling in Soterra, Inc. v. Food and Drug Administration. 36 CFR §2.51 – Demonstrations(b1) Small Group permit exception Demonstrations involving 25 persons or less do not require a permit unless:
(c2) Designated Areas. All demonstrations will be held in designated areas. The established locations are:
For a map of these locations, please visit Appendix A. 36 CFR §2.52 – Sale of Printed Matter and the Distribution of Printed Matter and Other Message-Bearing Items(b) The sale or distribution of printed matter by 25 people or less is allowed within the park areas designated as available under §2.51(c)(2). The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than 25 persons is allowed within designated park areas when the Superintendent has issued a permit.Note: Examples of message-bearing items that may be distributed for free include CDs, DVDs and other readable electronic media. Continue to Second Page |
Last updated: July 2, 2024