I just got back from visiting cousins in California. In addition to seeing what life was like in their hometown, my husband and I wanted to explore some of California’s natural resources.

We drove five hours to Yosemite National Park. We knew that we were guaranteed a first-class experience with beautiful vistas and recreation in a well-maintained, well-managed park.

Each time we have been fortunate enough to visit one of our national parks, our adventure has been wonderful. We have been able to see the natural wilderness with infrastructure designed to make the most of the surroundings.

We drove beside towering redwoods, hiked into gorgeous waterfalls and visited the more remote Tuolumne Meadows. Although many people visit the park each year, we had access to many out-of-the-way places that were skillfully designed to preserve the natural flora and fauna.

When Elliotsville Plantation, Inc.’s land is designated as a national park and national recreation area, it will offer a similar experience and draw people from far away who want to see a stunning example of Maine’s North Woods.

Having visited the land designated to become Maine’s newest national park, I can envision natural access into ponds to view moose, bike paths along the East Branch of the Penobscot and scenic overlooks to view Mount Katahdin. I can also envision thousands of acres of less accessible land, where wildlife can live virtually undisturbed.

I encourage Maine’s congressional delegation to take action on Elliotsville Plantation’s generous gift and introduce legislation to designate their land as a national park and national recreation area, so that others may enjoy the area as I have.

Carrie Donoghue

Freeport