Burning concerns on wildfires

To the editor:
    Public cooperation and increased diligence by enforcement agencies to curb illegal fires and underage drinking in North Maine Woods
    Spring is arriving early this year and so is concern for illegal fires on private forest land in the St. John Valley.  Local citizens, law enforcement and forest landowners are also concerned about the safety and well being of people.
    Illegal activities including bonfires at all-night parties and drinking by underage youth are dangerous. In addition to the obvious threat of forest fire and accidents, these activities are frequently tied to littering, vandalism and theft. So this year representatives of the Maine Forest Service, Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office, Maine Warden Service and Maine State Police will be extra vigilant in patrolling private forest lands and enforcing state laws regarding illegal fires and other illegal activities.
    People riding into the woods of northern Maine this spring will see new signs posted to remind visitors that illegal fires and other inappropriate activities are prohibited.  The signs are a simply courtesy warning to visitors.  Should law enforcement personnel encounter people who are in violation of state laws they are empowered to take appropriate enforcement action regardless of any signs.
    There is a long tradition of open access to our forests which everyone wants to continue, but landowners need cooperation from people using the forest to use the land responsibly.  To keep the opportunities available, please recreate responsibly.
    Landowners and law abiding citizens can help stop illegal activity in this region by reporting suspicious activity and taking notes on vehicle registration numbers, time, date and physical descriptions of vehicles and violators.
    The wording on the signs which will be posted on private forest roads includes: “Prevention of illegal fires and unauthorized camping is a priority in this region. Report any illegal activities by calling: 1-800-924-2261. Your cooperation will help keep these lands open to public use.”
    The message includes all private forestland in northern Maine in addition to the North Maine Woods management area.
Al Cowperthwaite,
executive director
North Maine Woods Inc.