WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP – The state’s top conservation official is getting involved in the dispute over the closing of the popular Bald Mountain hiking trail in western Maine.

Department of Conservation Commissioner Ronald Lavaglio said he has been in touch with the landowner who posted no-trespassing signs on the trail earlier this month.

Lavaglio wouldn’t comment on the exact reasons for the trail closure, but said the landowner, Tom Oliver of Wilton, is “feeling some stress.” He said one of Oliver’s concerns might be that the public takes private-land access for granted.

“Maybe at some point there could be a resolution, but it takes time to heal,” he said.

Oliver has yet to speak publicly about why he shut down the trail. The no-trespassing signs have been marred with graffiti and have holes in them from birdshot.

The closing of the trail took hikers and area residents by surprise. The trail is a favorite for families and school field trips because the bald rock summit, with an elevation of 3,000 feet, has scenic views and can be reached in less than an hour.

Michelle Belanger, landowner relations coordinator for the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, said posted land is becoming a statewide problem.

She suggested that people who use private property always contact landowners first, and use common sense such as a carry-in, carry-out trash policy.

There are other ways to show appreciation, she said, such as writing thank-you notes, sharing part of a bagged deer or offering to do some work f on the property.

“Land users just need to make positive, personal contacts,” Belanger said.