I just read the article titled “Tensions between Baxter State Park, Appalachian Trail dominate meeting” (Oct. 3).
I agree that there are more people on the Appalachian Trail every year. What I don’t agree with is your solution to the problem.
As a society, we have rules in place for a reason, and we need to enforce those rules. Without enforcement, the rules are just words on a piece of paper.
Maybe we need to have a park official on top of Katahdin to enforce the rules of the park during peak times (OK, who is going to pay for that?).
If hikers knew that there was someone up there when they summit, their attitudes would change.
As far as service dogs go, if they cannot meet the regulations set out in Maine’s Title 5, Section 4553, Subsection 9-D9-E, paragraph A or B, then they are told – not asked – to leave the park.
I’m part of the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Connecticut chapter as a trail maintainer, an avid hiker and a trail angel. I talked to a lot of thru-hikers this season and asked about summiting and their plans.
The answer I got from most (mostly the younger ones) was: “Who is up there to stop us?”
They just spent the last four or five months living basically without rules (do not get me wrong – it doesn’t give them any right). So, when reality comes back into their lives, they forget there are rules in Baxter State Park.
These hikers need to learn that it is not a right, but a privilege to be on the trail.
I just do not believe that we should punish the masses for the actions of a few.
Craig Cassella
Wallingford, Conn.
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