While watching Wildfire Saturday morning, I was surprised to learn that 25% of Baxter State Park is open to hunting. As an avid fisherman and occasional hunter, I feel the Baxter State Park Expansion Area(The Katahdin Lake Project) is good. It will protect the land from development and allow nature to reign as king.

Why shouldn't we leave certain areas of The Baxter State Park Expansion Area open to hunting? Shouldn't hunters be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the area? It's within the conscripts of the park's history. Or, should we close certain areas of the Baxter State Park expansion area to fishing, hiking and hunting? This would help preserve it's beauty and protect it from over usage. It would leave it for the animals.

While working for The National Park Service, at Yellowstone National Park, I conducted human impact studies of backwoods campsites and hiking trails. Due to the high number of hikers, a strong human impact became apparent in a short period of time. Often, the trail or campsite we surveyed would have to be closed or moved. This would allow nature to recover from the heavy human presence.

As Maine's natural beauty becomes explored by more people, some considerations should be put in place to protect the area from extensive human impact. Baxter State Park was created for the enjoyment of the people, and I am glad to see it expand. I want people to be able to enjoy its beauty. I also want to protect its beauty for use by future generations.

Should certain areas of Baxter be closed all visitors?

How do you feel?

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