The proposed deal would promote access points at Churchill Dam and Indian Stream.

AUGUSTA (AP) – A multiparty agreement on access to the Allagash Wilderness Waterway was embraced Wednesday by Gov. John Baldacci.

Joining negotiators at a State House news conference, Baldacci said he accepted a recommendation that would continue May and September use of John’s Bridge to launch and take out canoes.

He said rangers would encourage users to unload parallel to the road and that access sites at Churchill Dam and Indian Stream would be promoted as preferred alternatives to the use of John’s Bridge.

The agreement also outlines improvements at the Cunliffe and Ramsey campsites to make Cunliffe accessible by canoe only while continuing vehicle access to the current Ramsey site.

Baldacci also said the acquisition of some land adjacent to the waterway would be pursued.

“The River Drivers Agreement is unique because of the comprehensive and visionary approach it brings to the management of the waterway,” Baldacci said in prepared remarks.

“The agreement integrates the interests of local residents who enjoy the river for picnicking, fishing and camping as well as the values that draw people for an extended wilderness canoe trip,” he said.

A group of more than dozen waterway “stakeholders” met in Millinocket over the weekend to discuss the accord.

The 12-point agreement envisions the development of a cultural heritage center at a new take-out parcel in the town of Allagash.

It also calls for better monitoring of state-owned land and a study of noise and visual impacts along the waterway.

The 92-mile Allagash Wilderness Waterway has been a state-administered wild river under the federal Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and a wilderness waterway under state law.

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