Protect Maine land from development

To the Editor;
Maine’s North Woods is the largest undeveloped area east of the Mississippi and is the home to Canadian lynx, bear, moose, bobcats and more. This 10 million acres of undeveloped forests, lakes and rivers needs to be protected for future generations. Right now, Mainers use the land for fishing, hiking and hunting but public access to this area is not guaranteed. Acquiring more public lands would ensure public access forever. We need to support a new bond for the Land for Maine’s Future Program so that funds are available to purchase more lands.

Right now, Maine’s North Woods is losing protections and is exposed to potential development that would fragment the land, endanger wildlife and privatize the land use. If we want the right to enjoy nature, it comes with the responsibility to protect the land when it’s endangered. At the very least, we need to act to reinstate the adjacency principle which protected areas one mile or more from previously developed areas.

To speak out against the decrease of protection, please call your local legislators and Gov. Janet Mills. Ask them to protect the legacy of Maine’s North Woods by limiting sprawling development in the North Woods.

Sarah Dennison
Bangor