Exhibit 23(a) CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this registration statement on Form S-8 of our report dated February 24, 1994 incorporated by reference in MAXXAM Inc.'s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993 and to all references to our Firm included in this registration statement. ARTHUR ANDERSEN & CO. Arthur Andersen & Co. Houston, Texas July 6, 1994