Currently there is a bill, LD 736, that would prohibit the release of wolves in Maine. This bill would stop an action even before it could be debated among citizens and scientists in this state.

I attended the public meeting held by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Orono last fall that discussed wolf reclassification in the Northeast. During the almost two hours of testimony by citizens only three people voiced opposition to the idea of reintroduction of wolves in Maine. An overwhelming majority of the people who were present supported the concept of wolf-reintroduction. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also held a four-month comment period from August to November 2000. These comments are available to the Legislature. Shouldn’t we at least wait until service analyzes these comments and makes its ruling in July 2001 before any legislation is considered?

There are many valid reasons to support wolf reintroduction to Maine. One only has to look at the success in Yellowstone to see how wolves can restore a healthy balance to the ecosystem and boost the local economy. It is also a complex matter that needs study and open discussion. Please, do not let the Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife prematurely kill this issue before it can be openly debated.

Janice Kasper

Swanville