An April 24 article about Branch Lake characterized that the Department of Conservation refused to provide its shorefront land to build a new boat access facility. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Our consistent position is that we favor a boat launch and are willing to develop one on the state land; however, the Ellsworth Town Council spoke clearly to us about not building it and we respect their request. While we believe access to Maine great ponds is for all citizens and extends beyond a town’s sole purview, we’re hoping users of Branch Lake and the Ellsworth Town Council can find a consensus so the state can help the project move ahead.

Ron Lovaglio

Commissioner

Department of Conservation

Augusta