Protecting Natural Resources: MITSC's Role in Environmental Stewardship

The Maine Indian Tribal-State Commission (MITSC) is committed to protecting the natural resources that sustain Wabanaki cultures, ensuring the health of their lands, waters, and communities. By addressing critical environmental issues, MITSC advocates for balanced policies that honor tribal sustenance rights while promoting conservation.

Key initiatives include:

• Updating MITSC fishing rules to balance fisheries conservation with tribal sustenance needs.
• Promoting and publicizing the Sea Run report, which highlights the impact of historical Maine policies on tribal fisheries and offers actionable recommendations.
• Monitoring the cleanup of the HoltraChem site to mitigate environmental risks.
• Supporting studies on the impact of PFAS contamination on Wabanaki communities and citizens.
• Tracking mining projects, such as Wolfden, to assess potential environmental impacts.
• Advocating for the remediation of structural (dams) and environmental (dioxin) harms affecting waterways and fisheries.

Through research, advocacy, and collaboration, MITSC works to protect the natural resources vital to the Wabanaki Nations, ensuring their long-term sustainability and cultural significance.

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