After reading John Morrison’s op-ed, “Put a stop to the Maine land grab” (BDN, Aug. 9), it is unclear what he is after.

Every acre of land being considered for protection will continue to stay on the tax rolls, while nearly every acre of land will continue to produce timber for the Domtar mill in Woodland and other facets of the woods industry. If that is not working with the broader community in mind, I am not sure what is, not to mention Domtar also supports the project.

Georgia Pacific sold its land to Wagner, just as it had the right to do. Wagner Woodlands as the current landowner wants to close this deal with the Downeast Lakes Land Trust while still retaining ownership of the property, which it has the right to do. The timberland in the towns Morrison outlined will continue to serve as it always has – as timberland for the mill.

I have chosen to live in Grand Lake Stream to run a business and to raise my family. In my mind, there is no better place to do either.

With a protected, high quality natural resource base, other business will locate in the region as well bringing new jobs with them.

The Downeast Lakes Forestry Partnership is just that – a partnership, not a land grab as John Morrison has suggested.

It is a partnership that is looking toward the future of the region, not one that is stuck in the past. Progress waits for no one.

Jeff McEvoy

Weatherby’s: The Fisherman’s Resort

Grand Lake Stream