Former state Rep. Mike Shaw, D-Standish, recently ended his legislative service. I would like to thank Rep. Shaw for his service to the state.

During his almost seven years of service, he made a substantial contribution to the protection of Maine’s fish and wildlife.

As House chair of the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee, he garnered support from his colleagues to pass legislation limiting the use of lead tackle to protect loons and lakes from the negative effects of lead poisoning. He also helped to expand protections for brook trout and increase funding for addressing invasive aquatic species.

During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to help secure additional funding for the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Under his leadership, the IFW Committee unanimously approved legislation adding new species to the state’s Endangered and Threatened Species List, and the Legislature approved these additions.

These increased protections will help draw additional resources to protect these wildlife species, including three types of bats that are at risk. As a result of his excellent environmental record, he received a 100 percent score on the Maine Conservation Voters 2015 scorecard.

I wish Rep. Shaw and his family the best and applaud him for all that he has done on behalf of Maine’s fish and wildlife during his legislative service.

Jenn Burns Gray

staff attorney and advocate, Maine Audubon

Falmouth

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