FAIRFIELD – A group of about 30 demonstrators gathered Tuesday outside the regional offices of Plum Creek, which is proposing a large development around Moosehead Lake.

Calling themselves the Native Forest Network, the demonstrators handed a mock “Fossil Fool’s Award” to the timber company. The group warned Plum Creek that its proposal to develop the North Woods would contribute to highway congestion and air pollution.

Plum Creek General Manager Paul Davis said the protest would have no effect on company plans to develop the land.

Plum Creek is proposing to rezone approximately 20,000 acres in the Moosehead region and has also pledged to permanently protect more than 400,000 acres in the region through easements and land sales to conservation groups if the development plan is approved.