Code of Maine Rules
94 - INDEPENDENT AGENCIES
335 - WELLS NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY
Chapter 1 - RULES FOR PUBLIC USE OF WELLS RESERVE
- Section 335-1-1 - Regulations for Administration and Public Use of Wells Reserve
- Section 335-1-2 - Policy for Reserve Educational Programs and Group Use of Trails and Education Facilities
- Section 335-1-3 - Policy for the use of Wells Reserve Facilities by Non-Related Organizations for Non-Reserve Related Activities is established in recognition of the fact that they will build public support and raise funds for the Reserve
SUMMARY: The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve was established under 15 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 921. It is maintained to provide undisturbed areas as a natural field laboratory and educational site. This includes the protection of the area for short and long-term research, education, and interpretation. The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve is also maintained to protect fish, wildlife, and plant communities. Multiple uses including low intensity recreational uses are allowed to the extent that they do not conflict with the operation of the Reserve for research and education.
The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Authority (the Authority) was established by the State legislature through passage of Private and Special Law #108 in 1990. The legislation was amended in 2003 by LD #777 and in 2013 by LD #987. The purpose of the Authority is to manage and sustain the coastal lands and other resources within the reserve, further coordination and cooperation among State agencies, the Town of Wells, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Laudholm Trust, develop and implement programs for estuarine research and education and provide public access and opportunities for public enjoyment compatible with the protection of the reserve's natural resources. The Authority, in compliance with the Reserve's Management Plan, is responsible for management of the Reserve lands for which the Authority holds a license, lease or other interest or lands that are under agreement with a cooperating agency. The Authority has overall jurisdiction over the establishment and coordination of research, education, and resource management policies for the Reserve. A violation of the rules of the Reserve is a Class E crime.
This chapter outlines the regulations governing the administration and public use of the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve (Wells Reserve).
STATUTORY AUTHORITY: P&SL 1989, Chapter 108, Section 2; Section 3, subsections 1-7; Section 5, subsections 8, 9
