Sen. Angus King of Maine says he's not willing to rule out a national monument proposal if it could help the economy.

King is serving as moderator Monday as National Park Service Director Jonathan Jarvis listened to concerns about a proposed national monument east of Baxter State Park.

Speaking in East Millinocket, King said he used to oppose the proposal for a national park or national monument, but he says he's now open to reconsidering his stance, especially in light of the region's economic struggles.

The land east of Baxter State Park is owned by a foundation created by Burt's Bees founder Roxanne Quimby. Her proposal calls for donating land valued at $60 million and creating a $40 million endowment to fund operations. (AP)

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