SIDNEY: MASTER HUNTER IDEA ADVANCES

Members of hunting groups met with state biologists Saturday to discuss the creation of a “master hunter” program that would train and certify individuals in hopes of increasing access to private lands. The Izaac Walton League’s Maine chapter floated the idea more than a year ago, but it was overshadowed by the 2004 bear hunting referendum. Similar programs in other states have improved hunter-landowner relations and helped stem the tide of land closure. Saturday, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, Safari Club International, Maine Small Woodlot Owners’ Association, Maine Trapper’s Association and several other groups met to begin discussing a draft plan, which is expected to be released later this year. Earning master hunter certification likely will require passing tests on such matters as wildlife biology, shooting and tracking skills, outdoor ethics and Maine law. For more information, contact the league at www.iwlamaine.org or 897-6295.