CENTRAL MAINE • June 2, 2024
Every 10 years, state fish and wildlife agencies are required to develop a state Wildlife Action Plan (WAP) to receive federal funding. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IFW) is updating its plan. A major component is compiling a list of Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN). Unlike other states which are soliciting public input, Maine is developing its 2025 WAP with no formal or informal process for doing the same. The SCGN list is being developed behind closed doors. The only time the public will be allowed to provide input will be after the list is already made and the plan is a done deal. IFW refuses to give those who do not hunt, some 90% of Maine people, a seat at the proverbial table. If you support democracy, contact IFW Commissioner Judith Camuso and request a formal process for public participation early on in the process, long before the SCGN list is developed, and the plan is drafted. ~ John Glowa, South China