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4 HARoWSE, 2ND Pion
BaNGor, Maanz04401
‘Thu Go} 94.3070
axe (207) 9413075
William J, Schneider
_ATORNEY GEER 1s Conconess x, $1301
Portia, Mattuso4io!
‘Tous (207) 8220060,
Fase (2078220259
Stara oP MAINE sedcstnanag,
TEL: (207) 626-8800 O¥PICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL \nIBOU, MAINE
Tr Rae-rzanba 6 Stare House Station te Goh Bee
AUGUSTA, MAINE 04333-0006
August 8, 2012
Kirk Francis, Governor
Penobscot Indian Nation
(2 Wabaneki Way
Indian Island, ME 04468
Dear Governor Francis:
Lam writing vegarding regulatory jurisdiction on the main stem of the Penobscot River.
My Office regularly receives inquinies from State Legislators, executive branch officials, and
menibers ofthe general publie-conceming. this issue,-L also-understand-that-there have.been——-
several incidents in recent years in which Penobscot Indian Nation representatives have
confronted state employees, including game wardens, as well as members of public, on the River
for the purpose of asserting jurisdiction over activities occurring on the River,
‘The State's long-standing position on this issue is set forth in the attached Opinion, which
T have issued in order to provide guidance to the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and
the Warden Service as these agencies perform their duties on the River. I would appreciate it if
you would review the Opinion and inform me whether the Penobscot Indian Nation disagrees
with its conclusions. ‘To the extent there is disagreement, | believe it is important that the matter
bo resolved in an appropriate forum, and not be a source of unnecessary conflict between state
and tribal wardens and others who are on the River. Our responsibilities to ensure safe use of the
River demand no less,
“Thank you for your consideration,
Sincerely,