AUBURN – Two central Maine businesses have learned the hard way how valuable snowplows are this snowy winter season.

Emerson Chevrolet in Auburn reported that somebody stole a $4,000 plow right off the front of a pickup truck on Monday night. Business owner John Emerson said he had to use a backup plow to keep the lots clear.

In nearby Lewiston, thieves stole a $5,100 plow from a kitchen and bath business.

Police reports have been filed, but the business owners aren’t optimistic they’ll see their plows anytime soon.