I have been a practicing forester in Maine for over 30 years. During this time, I have seen just one black bear in the woods.
I do not believe that the fair chase method of bear hunting, recommended by referendum proponents, is a suitable substitute for current hunting methods (baiting, hounding and trapping). Our woods are too densely stocked with trees for the still hunt or fair chase method to be effective.
As part of the forestry curriculum at the University of Maine, I was taught that policy – with respect to the management of our renewable natural resources, such as timber and wildlife – should be grounded in science, not sensationalism.
I will entrust the management of our bear population to the trained professionals, i.e., the biologists and game wardens of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
That is why I am voting “no” on Question 1.
Peter Klachany
consulting forester
Shapleigh
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