This blog post is preceded but 2 previous blogs: Sunday, August 21st, 2011 "Do we need a North Woods National Park" and Sunday, January 22, 2012, "The prize is always worth the fight". Both give the background and information of the ongoing subject and battle. These are articles of my opinions and heartfelt beliefs.
"Maine; The way life should be", our State slogan. You can see it in writing once you cross the Kittery bridge entering the base of Maine along Interstate 95. I started thinking about what that really means, what makes it so true and why it has never been more important. However this is not simply about me, which has partly to do with why this blog has taken me so long to complete. I needed to get beyond my anger and put the whole situation in proper perspective to be the most effective. So, just what makes Maine so special?
One person wants people to believe that the only thing that makes Maine special and unique is only natural beauty; the forests, mountains and waterways of central and northern regions surrounding Baxter State Park and the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. Really? Is that all that makes living in Maine the way life should be?
I believe that statement to be much broader. I can't speak for southern Maine; I have never lived there. Nor can I speak for the coastal regions of this beautiful State. However, when I think of those regions I think not only of their natural beauty, but of the people who live there that make them unique.
One cannot think of coastal Maine without picturing lobster boats, light houses and beaches but also the salty fishermen and folks with rosy cheeks saying "Ayuh, and Gawd Mawnin" is a downeast drawl.
Another part of what makes a region in itself special is the history. The fishermen of the coast are the lumberjacks and riverdrivers of the inner regions along with the guides and outfitters of the western mountains to Katahdin and beyond, to the farmers in the most northern and north east of this wonderful State of Maine. Let me tell you a little bit of my piece of the blueberry pie; the Katahdin region.
I was born in Millinocket; known as the "Magic City" for the way it seemed to magically appear out of the valley of the Penobscots West Branch River with the building of the Great Northern Paper Mill. The regions logging history dates back into the early 1830s on both the East and West Branches of the Penobscot River. The West Branch known more today for its exhilarating white water rafting and Salmon fishing was then known as one of the greatest log diving rivers of the whole north east from Chesuncook lake and watersheds like Nesownedhunk, flowed into the west branch supplying logs not only for the papermills, but further south to the saw mills in Old Town and Orono. The Millinocket Great Northern Mill was the first of two with a sister mill built along the river to the east ( therefore East Millinocket). The mills were the premier newsprint and other specialty paper supplier with Millinockets mill housing the infamous #11 paper machine, once the largest paper machine in the world. All this could never have existed if not for the people; the lumberjacks, river drivers, papermakers and their families that have lived here for generations creating all the towns and small communities.
On the East Branch of the Penobscot, from Grande Lake Mattagamon to the Atlantic Ocean, the lumberjacks and river drivers carved history literally in stone. The huge boom rings are still embedded into large rocks along the riverbanks. The Hunt Farm, built along the east side of the river in 1835 as well as Camps Lunkasoo approximately two miles upriver accommodated loggers and adventurous travelers who worked and recreated along the waterways and woods, all in the shadow of Mount Katahdin. Wassataquoik Stream flows into the East Branch across from Lunkasoo Camps, where the young Donn Fendler finally emerged to be rescued after getting lost on the mountain nine days prior.
The East and West Branches of the Penobscot River merge together at Nicatou (the place where two rivers meet) later named the town of Medway, is where I grew up listening and learning about the history; my history. My Dad told me stories of the big bombers landing at the Millinocket Airport to refuel during WWII and how he would go hang out with the pilots with dreams of someday flying. My Grandfather was a member of the CCC corps that carved out the roads of the region. Henry David Thoreau canoed from Bangor to Nicatou to meet his Native American Guide Joe Attein, who led the way on several of his adventures into the Maine Woods. When He wrote about his trips, he wrote of the loggers, Natives and woodsmen and the people who let him stay for the night here and there along the way.
Yes, things are not the same in the region with only the East Millinocket Mill operating along with the loss of other jobs, trades and businesses. However, things are not dead either and no one knows what tomorrow or the future will bring. The proud, strong, enduring peoples of the region are still here and with that not all is lost, there is always hope. (Please refer to one of my previous blogs for my view on the future in: "Do we need a North Woods National Park")
The Katahdin region, with all it has to offer, and all that it has had is because of the people who chose to make it home. One Woman, with her agenda does not value the history, natural resources or the people.. She claims to be a visionary but would destroy the history, heritage and traditions built by the people. To me, this makes her a tyrant. A true visionary,one that has affected me personally although we are of different era's, was Cornelia "Fly Rod" Crosby. She opened up a world the experiences of Maine's woods and waters to men and women alike, crediting her own vital health to the outdoors at it's best. She was instrumental to the creation of the Registered Maine Guide, and was honored with the very first Guides License as thanks and gratitude of a treasured way of life. I have held a guides license since 1989.
Tis true that if one has the ability and desire to purchase land they most certainly can, including for the most part with regulation to do what one wishes with it. However, to have a hidden agenda and motive for it's use should not be supported.
I did not want this blog to be about me although current events have made that very difficult. I'm very aware of others that have been forever effected by ones ravenous greed for glory. The aforementioned Lunkasoo Camps have been swallowed in the mist to only be enjoyed by a select few with no living to be made. Other guides and outfitters have lost traditional uses on many parcels of land that have been purchased and locked. I myself am being affected by such methods leaving not only my livelihood in question, but my families future as well. For the first time in my life, I will not be able to adorn my hunting clothes, sling my rifle or shotgun over my shoulder, walk out my front door, go into the woods and go hunting. My Grandson so young and new, may never know the same privilege to hunt, fish and access the outdoors like we have for so many generations. He may never know what it is to make a living loving what life, in the great outdoors as I had so hoped to hand down someday.
Roxanne Quimby should not be allowed to destroy what history has created for her and those who support her selfish endeavors, as a vision of what they claim will save, protect and restore, with the devastation and destruction of the very essence of what makes "Maine; The way life should be".
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Sunday, January 22, 2012
The prize is always worth the fight....
The title of this post probably pertains to both sides of this issue as the battle rages on in the Katahdin region. It is rapidly becoming clear that this issue will effect everyone who calls this region home in one form or another whether is it an economic or personal impact. It has always been a heart felt issue to me and at this time I will direct those who have not followed my past blogs, to take just a second and read my blog from Sunday, August 21st, 2011 titled "Do we need a North Maine Woods National Park??". In that post I gave some background information and my personal opinion of the future of the area.
Since that post a few things have changed concerning my personal and economic future. Going on eleven years I have leased two large parcels of land in my hometown of Woodville for my guide service and within the last year went into a purchase agreement for the purpose of building a full service all season lodge. These plans have been put on hold due to the rumored fact that the remaining of the two large parcels are in consideration to be sold to Roxanne Quimby ( background info concerning Quimby is also in the "August 21,2011 post).
I have stated that I do not favor nor support the idea of a National Park in my neck of the woods. I will admit that I have stated in the past that I did not feel that Quimbys proposed park would actually affect me or my business as it is a tourism based effect which would possibly bring more visitors, interest and visibility. However this is not to be misconstrued as support of a National park, but of a vision of rejuvenation to a depressed area that desperately needs a boost not a hero.
I have recently been theoretically slapped up side the head with a big old dose of reality and that is, with great thought, that everyone who lives and loves in the Katahdin region will indeed be affected in some way by the invasion of a communistic woman who wishes to dictate her ideas of the way life should be. It has been rumored as I have not been formerly informed that the Woodville lots that is so vital to the survival of my business and lifestyle has been negotiated for purchase by none other than, Roxanned Quimby. Quimby has openly stated this ploy and tactic as future bargaining chips, or as I would like to call it, bait, bribe and BS! If this truly comes to light, it will be extremely detrimental to my survival and my families future!
With the wonderful world of facebook, one can read, research and comment on several pages from both sides of this debate. I have given the "Like", and participated on a few of these pages with a couple in particular: "Ban Roxanne" and "Preserving Maine Traditions". Both of these pages will allow you to not only read the many comments and hopefully understand the fears and deep emotions of the citizens, but also access the oppositions pages, web sites, etc..
Now a couple of the hot topics to bring you up to speed. This past spring Quimby began holding public meetings in the Katahdin region, in an attempt to rally support for her ""70,000 acre National Park"", which is in my opinion the sheep in the wolf's clothing. After her failed attempt to get support over the peoples opposition from our Representatives and Senators in Washington, she was forced to put on a smile and address the people directly as it is a fact that if the people most effected do not embrace her plans, it is a hurdle she can not jump over. I personally attended two of those meetings; the first in Millinocket and the second in Medway. Her tactics to try to gain support failed her terribly for the most part, with even her tasteless bribes turned down. So Now what.......approach the people from a different direction. Instead of giving support for the creation of a National Park, get support for a feasibility study as to the economic and environmental pro's and con's with that twisted concentration on the so called pro's as gateway communities of a National Park. So meetings began with even the National Park Service sending representation as to what a feasibility study implies. ( basic information on the feasibility study: Bangor Daily News, November 1,2011, by Nick Sambides Jr.,"National Park Service Chief Outlines Goals of Feasibility Study"). Just reading through the small list and from what I already am aware of, it would not in my opinion be feasible on three of the factors without looking any further! Out of all the locals towns and municipalities, she gained support of one towns board of Selectmen, which then led to the controversial meeting that took place early last fall in Medway where the citizens were asked to vote in favor of the feasibility study. Currently there is a petition circulating to rescind that decision and bring forth another vote to the people as legal protocol of the first meeting is questionable.
I find it quite disenchanting for the people of the Katahdin region, myself and family included, as to the feeling of despair at the fight of holding onto our heritage, our history. Of life as we have known it. Thankfully one of the mills I mentioned in my August blog post, has restarted to some capacity. However, the area still remains in a depressed state with many empty storefronts, buildings and businesses. Employment is little to none for those who seek jobs forcing many to either travel or up and leave all together. One real estate person stated there were 350 houses for sale in the town of Millinocket alone. However, we are proud people; strong people and we will not give up without a fight to the finish.....and the prize is indeed worth the fight.
Since that post a few things have changed concerning my personal and economic future. Going on eleven years I have leased two large parcels of land in my hometown of Woodville for my guide service and within the last year went into a purchase agreement for the purpose of building a full service all season lodge. These plans have been put on hold due to the rumored fact that the remaining of the two large parcels are in consideration to be sold to Roxanne Quimby ( background info concerning Quimby is also in the "August 21,2011 post).
I have stated that I do not favor nor support the idea of a National Park in my neck of the woods. I will admit that I have stated in the past that I did not feel that Quimbys proposed park would actually affect me or my business as it is a tourism based effect which would possibly bring more visitors, interest and visibility. However this is not to be misconstrued as support of a National park, but of a vision of rejuvenation to a depressed area that desperately needs a boost not a hero.
I have recently been theoretically slapped up side the head with a big old dose of reality and that is, with great thought, that everyone who lives and loves in the Katahdin region will indeed be affected in some way by the invasion of a communistic woman who wishes to dictate her ideas of the way life should be. It has been rumored as I have not been formerly informed that the Woodville lots that is so vital to the survival of my business and lifestyle has been negotiated for purchase by none other than, Roxanned Quimby. Quimby has openly stated this ploy and tactic as future bargaining chips, or as I would like to call it, bait, bribe and BS! If this truly comes to light, it will be extremely detrimental to my survival and my families future!
With the wonderful world of facebook, one can read, research and comment on several pages from both sides of this debate. I have given the "Like", and participated on a few of these pages with a couple in particular: "Ban Roxanne" and "Preserving Maine Traditions". Both of these pages will allow you to not only read the many comments and hopefully understand the fears and deep emotions of the citizens, but also access the oppositions pages, web sites, etc..
Now a couple of the hot topics to bring you up to speed. This past spring Quimby began holding public meetings in the Katahdin region, in an attempt to rally support for her ""70,000 acre National Park"", which is in my opinion the sheep in the wolf's clothing. After her failed attempt to get support over the peoples opposition from our Representatives and Senators in Washington, she was forced to put on a smile and address the people directly as it is a fact that if the people most effected do not embrace her plans, it is a hurdle she can not jump over. I personally attended two of those meetings; the first in Millinocket and the second in Medway. Her tactics to try to gain support failed her terribly for the most part, with even her tasteless bribes turned down. So Now what.......approach the people from a different direction. Instead of giving support for the creation of a National Park, get support for a feasibility study as to the economic and environmental pro's and con's with that twisted concentration on the so called pro's as gateway communities of a National Park. So meetings began with even the National Park Service sending representation as to what a feasibility study implies. ( basic information on the feasibility study: Bangor Daily News, November 1,2011, by Nick Sambides Jr.,"National Park Service Chief Outlines Goals of Feasibility Study"). Just reading through the small list and from what I already am aware of, it would not in my opinion be feasible on three of the factors without looking any further! Out of all the locals towns and municipalities, she gained support of one towns board of Selectmen, which then led to the controversial meeting that took place early last fall in Medway where the citizens were asked to vote in favor of the feasibility study. Currently there is a petition circulating to rescind that decision and bring forth another vote to the people as legal protocol of the first meeting is questionable.
I find it quite disenchanting for the people of the Katahdin region, myself and family included, as to the feeling of despair at the fight of holding onto our heritage, our history. Of life as we have known it. Thankfully one of the mills I mentioned in my August blog post, has restarted to some capacity. However, the area still remains in a depressed state with many empty storefronts, buildings and businesses. Employment is little to none for those who seek jobs forcing many to either travel or up and leave all together. One real estate person stated there were 350 houses for sale in the town of Millinocket alone. However, we are proud people; strong people and we will not give up without a fight to the finish.....and the prize is indeed worth the fight.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Long time coming..
I do believe my last blog was in bear season, which was a very discouraging and disappointing one. Second year in a row of low kill count. Although after talking with several other guides and services who mostly experienced the same, I still felt absolute frustration and continue to think "what could I have done".
In order for things to survive the tests of time, they need to adapt and Mother Nature does that best. Seemed all the large bears came in well after hunting time was over. I have heard it said a million times; they don't get big by being dumb. Still doesn't make me feel any better.....
After the third week of hunting, I was ready to throw in the towel; give up. After all, who wants to be asked "how was your season?', when your season...well, sucked to say the least. However I did have a little redemption on the fourth week that redeemed my faith. Our little buddy Trevor Stanley, who has been hunting and trapping with Big E and I since he was ten years old bagged a beautiful bear. He and I were sitting out that Monday afternoon when everything worked out right and a 313 pound bear came into the bait site the last hour of the hunt. Trevor listened and did everything right; I'm so very proud of him. To top it all off, he also got a super 8 point buck this year, his first!
While sitting out that night I also once again reinforced a few things that I have tried to tell my hunters; you must sit absolutely still and make not a sound. The lay of the land on this particular site is a steep slope directly behind the bait. The way the bait was set, the 55 gallon drum was to the left, with a large rock to the right with a couple large trees. Of course one must realize we are in the forest, so lots of trees, branches and leaves still at that time of year. Trevor saw the bear before me, as I had a branch in my line of vision. When he asked if he could shoot, I could not even see the bear. I leaned very slowly towards him and there she was; nothing but a head and ears could be defined as she stood rigidly still, staring on our direction from the slope behind the site. I told him "no, wait and don't move" in as low a whisper as I could so as not to bust us. The bear silently moved off behind the rock to the right and I told Trevor to shoulder his rifle and get ready. She appeared behind the bait once again, and just stood there.....watching...... This bear did that three times before emerging onto the bait site, where she once again stopped, and stared. I have said this before, and I will say it again; in all the years that I have guided, hunted and observed bear on bait sites, only once did the bear not look right at me in the stand. This has lead me to believe that a bears eyesight is a little better than what has been said over the years. Although they may not have the clearest vision, they can see movement; the number one enemy of a bear hunter. Also, I have come to the conclusion that all too many hunting shows, showing hunters talking and moving around in their stands has created an idea that what I have preached for years is not so important. I beg to differ and will defend my position over and over again. After all, I'm the guide, but I'm also a hunter and my success has come from my experience. I know my game so follow the rules. Next year, hunters may not like me so well, as I'm requesting that all ipods,blackberries or whatever will not be allowed on the baits, and should someone decide to go against the rule, they will not have the option of another bait site, or could be told to sit at camp, or leave. My success as a guide/guide service is quite dependent on the success of my hunters and judged much the same way. If you do it my way and it doesn't work, well at least I will feel it is the way it was meant to be. It's hunting. However, when someone goes against what I truly believe to be the defining factor my frustration goes into overload and I have to think that maybe there was nothing more that I could have done to change the end results. In that case someone chooses to just throw away their money. Listen to the guide!!!
I also feel that the bears are adapting to the game so to speak, which will only make the game a little harder to win. However, still, no matter what, bottom line......do it right.
I try to keep this blog about being a guide. It's about life in the woods here in Maine. I have branched out here and there to include other news in the outdoors world here in my neck of the woods, from the coyote issue to Roxanne Quimby's land grabs. Issues that every outdoor sports enthusiast encounters. However life in general goes on and life has it's ways of interrupting and disturbing the order of things. The slacking economy has had a great impact on how we do business. We are still making plans for the future on the new lot, but maybe not quite as extravagant as originally thought or dreamed. The lot has been cleared and prepared; the driveway is in as is the well, but that is where it has ended for this year. We hope to continue next Spring. Life has got in the way just a little with the need of a new truck and the upcoming arrival of our first grandchild ( daughter and babe will be living with us). We have dealt with a few dear loses, and a couple of new lives as we lost 2 of our pack, but gained 2 new ones that have brought smiles back on our faces. Of course our new grandson will bring on many smiles and good memories that are more precious than words can say! However all in all, we have had to regroup and one of those decisions I felt that had to be made is that we will not be attending the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show in Harrisburg PA. this year. We will have to try to advertise in other ways to keep going. The show is a sportsman/womans dreamland and we have made many friends that I will miss;however it is one of the largest expenses next to insurance, leases and in this economy, gas. It is the only show that we have done for the last 5 years. Sometimes we did well, and other times not so well. Had it been a successful event for us every time, I would cut corners some other way. We do what we must and I have always been a stickler, that if you are going to do something, do it right, do your best and whatever is meant to be will be. With that said, I want all who read this to know, I appreciate you and if you like what you have read and followed along with since the beginning of this blog, would you please pass it along. Currently our web site is down, and I'm working on that, so apologize for the inconvenience. We can be found on facebook at Ktaadn Guide Service, Outfitter and Camps, with lots of pictures, information and updates. We have lots of openings for the upcoming seasons from camp rentals, kayaking, hiking, ATV trail riding,to fishing and hunting adventures. We have 3 cozy cabins, beautiful starlit skies, blazing sunsets and all the charm one expects of life here in the shadow of Katahdin.
Happy Holidays!!!!!
In order for things to survive the tests of time, they need to adapt and Mother Nature does that best. Seemed all the large bears came in well after hunting time was over. I have heard it said a million times; they don't get big by being dumb. Still doesn't make me feel any better.....
After the third week of hunting, I was ready to throw in the towel; give up. After all, who wants to be asked "how was your season?', when your season...well, sucked to say the least. However I did have a little redemption on the fourth week that redeemed my faith. Our little buddy Trevor Stanley, who has been hunting and trapping with Big E and I since he was ten years old bagged a beautiful bear. He and I were sitting out that Monday afternoon when everything worked out right and a 313 pound bear came into the bait site the last hour of the hunt. Trevor listened and did everything right; I'm so very proud of him. To top it all off, he also got a super 8 point buck this year, his first!
While sitting out that night I also once again reinforced a few things that I have tried to tell my hunters; you must sit absolutely still and make not a sound. The lay of the land on this particular site is a steep slope directly behind the bait. The way the bait was set, the 55 gallon drum was to the left, with a large rock to the right with a couple large trees. Of course one must realize we are in the forest, so lots of trees, branches and leaves still at that time of year. Trevor saw the bear before me, as I had a branch in my line of vision. When he asked if he could shoot, I could not even see the bear. I leaned very slowly towards him and there she was; nothing but a head and ears could be defined as she stood rigidly still, staring on our direction from the slope behind the site. I told him "no, wait and don't move" in as low a whisper as I could so as not to bust us. The bear silently moved off behind the rock to the right and I told Trevor to shoulder his rifle and get ready. She appeared behind the bait once again, and just stood there.....watching...... This bear did that three times before emerging onto the bait site, where she once again stopped, and stared. I have said this before, and I will say it again; in all the years that I have guided, hunted and observed bear on bait sites, only once did the bear not look right at me in the stand. This has lead me to believe that a bears eyesight is a little better than what has been said over the years. Although they may not have the clearest vision, they can see movement; the number one enemy of a bear hunter. Also, I have come to the conclusion that all too many hunting shows, showing hunters talking and moving around in their stands has created an idea that what I have preached for years is not so important. I beg to differ and will defend my position over and over again. After all, I'm the guide, but I'm also a hunter and my success has come from my experience. I know my game so follow the rules. Next year, hunters may not like me so well, as I'm requesting that all ipods,blackberries or whatever will not be allowed on the baits, and should someone decide to go against the rule, they will not have the option of another bait site, or could be told to sit at camp, or leave. My success as a guide/guide service is quite dependent on the success of my hunters and judged much the same way. If you do it my way and it doesn't work, well at least I will feel it is the way it was meant to be. It's hunting. However, when someone goes against what I truly believe to be the defining factor my frustration goes into overload and I have to think that maybe there was nothing more that I could have done to change the end results. In that case someone chooses to just throw away their money. Listen to the guide!!!
I also feel that the bears are adapting to the game so to speak, which will only make the game a little harder to win. However, still, no matter what, bottom line......do it right.
I try to keep this blog about being a guide. It's about life in the woods here in Maine. I have branched out here and there to include other news in the outdoors world here in my neck of the woods, from the coyote issue to Roxanne Quimby's land grabs. Issues that every outdoor sports enthusiast encounters. However life in general goes on and life has it's ways of interrupting and disturbing the order of things. The slacking economy has had a great impact on how we do business. We are still making plans for the future on the new lot, but maybe not quite as extravagant as originally thought or dreamed. The lot has been cleared and prepared; the driveway is in as is the well, but that is where it has ended for this year. We hope to continue next Spring. Life has got in the way just a little with the need of a new truck and the upcoming arrival of our first grandchild ( daughter and babe will be living with us). We have dealt with a few dear loses, and a couple of new lives as we lost 2 of our pack, but gained 2 new ones that have brought smiles back on our faces. Of course our new grandson will bring on many smiles and good memories that are more precious than words can say! However all in all, we have had to regroup and one of those decisions I felt that had to be made is that we will not be attending the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show in Harrisburg PA. this year. We will have to try to advertise in other ways to keep going. The show is a sportsman/womans dreamland and we have made many friends that I will miss;however it is one of the largest expenses next to insurance, leases and in this economy, gas. It is the only show that we have done for the last 5 years. Sometimes we did well, and other times not so well. Had it been a successful event for us every time, I would cut corners some other way. We do what we must and I have always been a stickler, that if you are going to do something, do it right, do your best and whatever is meant to be will be. With that said, I want all who read this to know, I appreciate you and if you like what you have read and followed along with since the beginning of this blog, would you please pass it along. Currently our web site is down, and I'm working on that, so apologize for the inconvenience. We can be found on facebook at Ktaadn Guide Service, Outfitter and Camps, with lots of pictures, information and updates. We have lots of openings for the upcoming seasons from camp rentals, kayaking, hiking, ATV trail riding,to fishing and hunting adventures. We have 3 cozy cabins, beautiful starlit skies, blazing sunsets and all the charm one expects of life here in the shadow of Katahdin.
Happy Holidays!!!!!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Anticipation and Frustration
We are currently half way through the third week of bear season and once again no one has got a bear yet. In fact, no one has even seen one yet! Fortunately, we have a wonderful group of guys and the mood is still light. However, it is not always that way, as those who read my last blog now understand.
Every year, as the end of July approaches, guides and hunters prepare for the upcoming baiting season for bear. In Maine, we have thirty days that we can bait before the hunting season begins. At this point, leases and insurances are paid, bait has been purchased, and trucks have been serviced. Now the work begins. The placement of the bait sites have been well thought out and scouted with several of them being established from previous years.
From a guides point of view: I'm always anxious for the arrival of our first guests. Optimism abounds. I'm well rested and ready for the long days to come. My days start at 6:00am and often do not end until midnight. This year a bear was shot Monday night, however we were unable after considerable effort to recover it. Bad shot placement and/or over excitement when the bear came in we could not really tell. It is very hard sometimes and a wounded animal is one of the things that haunt me the most. Mid week came and went, no bears. The baits are working; the bears are there...but time. We like many have bought into the mass publicity of gear and gadgets and purchased over a three year period five game cameras. I have come to the conclusion that game cameras are much like fish finders; they tell you what is there but it doesn't help you get them. If anything they cause great frustration knowing big bears are coming in but not always at optimal time for hunting. By Wednesday, my alias "Blackcloud" begins lurking in the dark recesses of my mind. Big E, Peter and I start pondering what more can we do. Our policy is two bait sites per hunter, so we move them to their second sites with the great hopes that it will bring success. Thursday......my stomach starts as anxiety sets. Thankfully Friday night two hunters were finally successful and two bears are on the game pole. Not the numbers I would have liked nor anticipated, but I feel better and my nerves settle down. "Blackcloud" is held at bay.
Second week begins with a new group and revived faith. By Wednesday, two out of three have seen bear, one being a sow with two cubs and one that the hunter said he passed up because it was a small bear. To make a long story short, and for those who did not read my last blog, check it out to understand how it ended. I'm now getting wore out and ended up at the doctors office Thursday morning; or should "Blackcloud" went to the doctors.....
Week three, now midweek and no one has seen a bear yet. Bait sites are being hit and hit well, cleaning out the barrels.....but where are the bears. Game camera showed a nice bear having come in last Saturday at 6:09pm; perfect time. Other cameras show the phantoms feeding in the night. Not feeling the greatest and with 'Blackcloud" in control my nerves are frazzled and my schedule is taking a tole on mind, body and soul. The hunters we have are really great guys and their spirits are still good which helps.....a little.
From experience of having run the guide service for ten years now; it is not hard to see the disappointment on the faces of our hunters. The anticipation of hoping tonight will be the night and the discouragement when they come in at evenings end with still nothing. From a hunters point of view, or from what I believe they feel, the hunt is creating some frustrations for them as well. From a guides point of view, it seems to "Blackcloud" disastrous. It is very true that our hunters success is our success. Another low bear count also does not help when going to the sportsmens' show and being asked the number one question;"How did you do last year?" A question I hate to answer but honesty is still the best policy in my book and I reply, "not as well as I would have liked." I come to the point of racking my thoughts of what is happening and what more can we do, and what do the hunters think and what will they go back and tell their coworkers and friends. Things like that can bring the demise of a guide service. Sleep evades me and exhaustion begins. My mind works with twists and whirlwinds of what,why and how?
So with anticipation and a good amount of frustration I write this with fingers crossed that tonight will be their night.....or at the very least one happy hunter.
Every year, as the end of July approaches, guides and hunters prepare for the upcoming baiting season for bear. In Maine, we have thirty days that we can bait before the hunting season begins. At this point, leases and insurances are paid, bait has been purchased, and trucks have been serviced. Now the work begins. The placement of the bait sites have been well thought out and scouted with several of them being established from previous years.
From a guides point of view: I'm always anxious for the arrival of our first guests. Optimism abounds. I'm well rested and ready for the long days to come. My days start at 6:00am and often do not end until midnight. This year a bear was shot Monday night, however we were unable after considerable effort to recover it. Bad shot placement and/or over excitement when the bear came in we could not really tell. It is very hard sometimes and a wounded animal is one of the things that haunt me the most. Mid week came and went, no bears. The baits are working; the bears are there...but time. We like many have bought into the mass publicity of gear and gadgets and purchased over a three year period five game cameras. I have come to the conclusion that game cameras are much like fish finders; they tell you what is there but it doesn't help you get them. If anything they cause great frustration knowing big bears are coming in but not always at optimal time for hunting. By Wednesday, my alias "Blackcloud" begins lurking in the dark recesses of my mind. Big E, Peter and I start pondering what more can we do. Our policy is two bait sites per hunter, so we move them to their second sites with the great hopes that it will bring success. Thursday......my stomach starts as anxiety sets. Thankfully Friday night two hunters were finally successful and two bears are on the game pole. Not the numbers I would have liked nor anticipated, but I feel better and my nerves settle down. "Blackcloud" is held at bay.
Second week begins with a new group and revived faith. By Wednesday, two out of three have seen bear, one being a sow with two cubs and one that the hunter said he passed up because it was a small bear. To make a long story short, and for those who did not read my last blog, check it out to understand how it ended. I'm now getting wore out and ended up at the doctors office Thursday morning; or should "Blackcloud" went to the doctors.....
Week three, now midweek and no one has seen a bear yet. Bait sites are being hit and hit well, cleaning out the barrels.....but where are the bears. Game camera showed a nice bear having come in last Saturday at 6:09pm; perfect time. Other cameras show the phantoms feeding in the night. Not feeling the greatest and with 'Blackcloud" in control my nerves are frazzled and my schedule is taking a tole on mind, body and soul. The hunters we have are really great guys and their spirits are still good which helps.....a little.
From experience of having run the guide service for ten years now; it is not hard to see the disappointment on the faces of our hunters. The anticipation of hoping tonight will be the night and the discouragement when they come in at evenings end with still nothing. From a hunters point of view, or from what I believe they feel, the hunt is creating some frustrations for them as well. From a guides point of view, it seems to "Blackcloud" disastrous. It is very true that our hunters success is our success. Another low bear count also does not help when going to the sportsmens' show and being asked the number one question;"How did you do last year?" A question I hate to answer but honesty is still the best policy in my book and I reply, "not as well as I would have liked." I come to the point of racking my thoughts of what is happening and what more can we do, and what do the hunters think and what will they go back and tell their coworkers and friends. Things like that can bring the demise of a guide service. Sleep evades me and exhaustion begins. My mind works with twists and whirlwinds of what,why and how?
So with anticipation and a good amount of frustration I write this with fingers crossed that tonight will be their night.....or at the very least one happy hunter.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Great Expectations
I have come to the conclusion that TV has given people some unreal expectations. I'm talking about the numerous outdoor/ hunting channels and shows that show success ninety nine percent of the time. There are a few that will also show disappointment, missed shots or unrecoverable game, but for the most part in their thirty minute programs they show a happy hunter full of excitement and joy, shaking hands and holding horns or whatever the game is. However they should also state that to make the thirty minute program, it took maybe thirty hours of taping and lots of editing!! I have been approached at the sportsman shows we exhibit at by a few video crews who would like to come and video a hunt, but up to this point I have turned them down; however not for the reason I have come to conclusion here. They have wanted to bring four to six people, hunters and crew, for up to two weeks to give us a five minute promo at zero cost to them. When you are a small business as we are currently it is simply just not an option.
This morning a party of hunters left, a day early mind you, with the excuse that they have a long drive home. Well they would still have a long drive home no matter what day they left on! It did not take them two days to get here and I don't see it taking two days to get back home either. They are not from areas of recent heavy rains, high waters or floods! They left feeling let down, discouraged, disappointed and I got the feeling a little miffed at us. Two of them saw bears; one saw nothing. The two passed up the bears that they saw and I was pleased that they did as one was a small bear and the other was a sow with two cubs. That's just good hunting ethics. The other made comments that he had in the past at other guide services passed up six hundred pound bears day after day. First off, anyone passing up a six hundred pound bear, even just one makes me truly wonder "why?" As we listened to the complaints each night at the table it was not hard to understand possibly "why' he did not see a bear. "I stood the whole last hour waiting", "I thought a bear was coming in behind me and I kept looking", "I had to put my bug net on at dusk". All of that is the number one "Don't" of bear hunting from a stand: movement. It seems no matter how hard you try to explain the game, they have their own game plan. I often wonder why they bother to come to a guide service if they know more about the game than we do? It is so very true that our hunters success is our success because it is what people will judge you by. This is the hardest part of my job and one of the most frustrating! I blame much of this on TV programs that video the hunter talking to the camera in the tree, moving around, looking around and still bagging the bear or whatever. I was a hunter before I became a guide. As a guide I have sat in numerous treestands over the years; sat out with youth hunters and inexperienced hunters that did not feel comfortable to sit on a stand alone and I have observed bears, shot bears and had successful hunters get their bears. From all of that I have learned and have tried to teach those lessons so that others may be successful too. Bears are much smarter than many think and all too many think you put out some sweets and a bear comes a running. Not so! Bears are phantoms of the woods. They walk silently and seem to appear out of nowhere. They are extremely cautious when approaching a bait site, many times hesitating just in the background. Of all the bears I have observed, only once did a bear not come in and look directly at the stand and "me". They have awesome hearing and a very sensitive nose. They know when something is amiss and if you are doing things wrong, the likelihood of seeing a bear is slim to not at all. Some may still see a bear, but it is going to be an inexperienced young bear and not the trophy animal one is targeting.
I felt bad when the hunters left this morning; reminding them that the biggest bear ever taken here was the last minute of the last night. However it mattered not what I said as their minds were made up. I know they are not going to be return guests and for one reason or another think that we did not do enough. They will not consider our own frustration of the fact that we have worked for a month before season, paid out big money for leases, insurances, bait, gas and wages along with a long list of other things that it takes to run a guide service. To them, we failed to produce.
We enjoy watching the hunting channel and shows, knowing a little more of what goes on behind the scenes. However, I would like to see at the end of the shows a statement of how many hours of taping went into the effort before the final cuts along with something like "not all hunts are successful". Of course, the trouble is, unsuccessful hunts just don't make the cut leaving viewers with great expectations that hard working guides and outfitters hate, and that is unhappy hunters.
This morning a party of hunters left, a day early mind you, with the excuse that they have a long drive home. Well they would still have a long drive home no matter what day they left on! It did not take them two days to get here and I don't see it taking two days to get back home either. They are not from areas of recent heavy rains, high waters or floods! They left feeling let down, discouraged, disappointed and I got the feeling a little miffed at us. Two of them saw bears; one saw nothing. The two passed up the bears that they saw and I was pleased that they did as one was a small bear and the other was a sow with two cubs. That's just good hunting ethics. The other made comments that he had in the past at other guide services passed up six hundred pound bears day after day. First off, anyone passing up a six hundred pound bear, even just one makes me truly wonder "why?" As we listened to the complaints each night at the table it was not hard to understand possibly "why' he did not see a bear. "I stood the whole last hour waiting", "I thought a bear was coming in behind me and I kept looking", "I had to put my bug net on at dusk". All of that is the number one "Don't" of bear hunting from a stand: movement. It seems no matter how hard you try to explain the game, they have their own game plan. I often wonder why they bother to come to a guide service if they know more about the game than we do? It is so very true that our hunters success is our success because it is what people will judge you by. This is the hardest part of my job and one of the most frustrating! I blame much of this on TV programs that video the hunter talking to the camera in the tree, moving around, looking around and still bagging the bear or whatever. I was a hunter before I became a guide. As a guide I have sat in numerous treestands over the years; sat out with youth hunters and inexperienced hunters that did not feel comfortable to sit on a stand alone and I have observed bears, shot bears and had successful hunters get their bears. From all of that I have learned and have tried to teach those lessons so that others may be successful too. Bears are much smarter than many think and all too many think you put out some sweets and a bear comes a running. Not so! Bears are phantoms of the woods. They walk silently and seem to appear out of nowhere. They are extremely cautious when approaching a bait site, many times hesitating just in the background. Of all the bears I have observed, only once did a bear not come in and look directly at the stand and "me". They have awesome hearing and a very sensitive nose. They know when something is amiss and if you are doing things wrong, the likelihood of seeing a bear is slim to not at all. Some may still see a bear, but it is going to be an inexperienced young bear and not the trophy animal one is targeting.
I felt bad when the hunters left this morning; reminding them that the biggest bear ever taken here was the last minute of the last night. However it mattered not what I said as their minds were made up. I know they are not going to be return guests and for one reason or another think that we did not do enough. They will not consider our own frustration of the fact that we have worked for a month before season, paid out big money for leases, insurances, bait, gas and wages along with a long list of other things that it takes to run a guide service. To them, we failed to produce.
We enjoy watching the hunting channel and shows, knowing a little more of what goes on behind the scenes. However, I would like to see at the end of the shows a statement of how many hours of taping went into the effort before the final cuts along with something like "not all hunts are successful". Of course, the trouble is, unsuccessful hunts just don't make the cut leaving viewers with great expectations that hard working guides and outfitters hate, and that is unhappy hunters.
Monday, August 29, 2011
I stand by ethics.
Unfortunately we have had an incident this evening during the first night of bear hunting here at the guide service. It is not completely unique to just tonight, or to just this bear season, however I was put on the spot of "did I do my job?" Well that got me to thinking.
Many years ago ( many, many years...) when the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife board congratulated me after passing my oral exam, they said to me, "Kimberley, teach them something, if they go home with nothing else....teach them. And never stop learning!" This was a day I am very proud of. First off, there are not many, and back then even less, lady guides; with even less being hunting guides. Secondly, I worked very hard, and have continued over the years to learn more, be better at what I do; I truly have never stopped learning. When it comes to bear hunting,or just bear in general; I have made a point to learn the ways of the animal. I'm a hunter first, a guide second. I believe one can not be good at just one.
Also, most know and have heard of "Big E" if you have followed any of my writings. He is my husband and has been a wonderful teacher. He learned from his Father, and brothers at a very young age and is an accomplished hunter and trapper. He and I run the guide service together with the help of a true friend who is an accomplished hunter and trapper himself and my Mom in the kitchen. Therefore it is a joint effort in a labor of love and I could not do it without them; honestly wouldn't want to!
Anyway.....tonight we had the misfortune of not being able to recover an animal. This is a situation that I hate as it puts one in an uncomfortable place.....what do I/we say? Do we say anything? Did I somehow fail?
Many years ago (again) Big E and i worked for another guide and guide service before we decided to go on our own. Every Sunday night we were all required to attend "the meeting". It was the "talk". The do's and don't and don't you dare's of hunting camp and bear hunting. Big E and I over the years have contemplated the idea that for several reasons, we too should give "the talk". I was reminded of that tonight.
I thought about it for a while waiting for everyone to get back into camp. I thought about a lot of things......So when everyone got back in, and came in for the evening buffet, I asked for a moment that everyone just listen. I had thought out what I would say and how I would say it as I didn't want to put the person in the spotlight. I figured he probably felt bad enough. I know I would! I also know what it is like to have to wait until the next morning to go and look for an animal. It is grueling! You second guess yourself. You doubt yourself. You feel sick to your stomach and you watch the minutes click by until morning.....My animal was there. I had taken an excellent shot. I had done everything right......but I thought tonight......I thought.......what if? I believe that every hunter at some point, even the pro's have been in that situation. For me though, the thought of a wounded animal that I/we can't find is still terribly hard. That"s just the way I think. Therefore I decided it was time to have "the talk". I was careful; I was kind and then I was informational. Where to place the shot;behind the shoulder and in the middle. You see black bears have very thick and long hair, so three or more inches of blackness under his belly is nothing but thin air. Bring that shot up. I explained how bears often move and lurk in behind the baits looking for motion. I told them out of all the bear I have observed over the years, only one, one time did not look straight at the treestand and at me, yet I moved not an inch nor a muscle. I shared my knowledge; I'm a Master Maine Guide.
However it seems, that possibly it was not accepted in the light that it was given. Do I think that maybe I should have said nothing??? No, I had to. Not only is it my job, but it is a matter of ethics.
What do you think?
Many years ago ( many, many years...) when the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife board congratulated me after passing my oral exam, they said to me, "Kimberley, teach them something, if they go home with nothing else....teach them. And never stop learning!" This was a day I am very proud of. First off, there are not many, and back then even less, lady guides; with even less being hunting guides. Secondly, I worked very hard, and have continued over the years to learn more, be better at what I do; I truly have never stopped learning. When it comes to bear hunting,or just bear in general; I have made a point to learn the ways of the animal. I'm a hunter first, a guide second. I believe one can not be good at just one.
Also, most know and have heard of "Big E" if you have followed any of my writings. He is my husband and has been a wonderful teacher. He learned from his Father, and brothers at a very young age and is an accomplished hunter and trapper. He and I run the guide service together with the help of a true friend who is an accomplished hunter and trapper himself and my Mom in the kitchen. Therefore it is a joint effort in a labor of love and I could not do it without them; honestly wouldn't want to!
Anyway.....tonight we had the misfortune of not being able to recover an animal. This is a situation that I hate as it puts one in an uncomfortable place.....what do I/we say? Do we say anything? Did I somehow fail?
Many years ago (again) Big E and i worked for another guide and guide service before we decided to go on our own. Every Sunday night we were all required to attend "the meeting". It was the "talk". The do's and don't and don't you dare's of hunting camp and bear hunting. Big E and I over the years have contemplated the idea that for several reasons, we too should give "the talk". I was reminded of that tonight.
I thought about it for a while waiting for everyone to get back into camp. I thought about a lot of things......So when everyone got back in, and came in for the evening buffet, I asked for a moment that everyone just listen. I had thought out what I would say and how I would say it as I didn't want to put the person in the spotlight. I figured he probably felt bad enough. I know I would! I also know what it is like to have to wait until the next morning to go and look for an animal. It is grueling! You second guess yourself. You doubt yourself. You feel sick to your stomach and you watch the minutes click by until morning.....My animal was there. I had taken an excellent shot. I had done everything right......but I thought tonight......I thought.......what if? I believe that every hunter at some point, even the pro's have been in that situation. For me though, the thought of a wounded animal that I/we can't find is still terribly hard. That"s just the way I think. Therefore I decided it was time to have "the talk". I was careful; I was kind and then I was informational. Where to place the shot;behind the shoulder and in the middle. You see black bears have very thick and long hair, so three or more inches of blackness under his belly is nothing but thin air. Bring that shot up. I explained how bears often move and lurk in behind the baits looking for motion. I told them out of all the bear I have observed over the years, only one, one time did not look straight at the treestand and at me, yet I moved not an inch nor a muscle. I shared my knowledge; I'm a Master Maine Guide.
However it seems, that possibly it was not accepted in the light that it was given. Do I think that maybe I should have said nothing??? No, I had to. Not only is it my job, but it is a matter of ethics.
What do you think?
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Do we need a North Maine Woods National Park?
First I apologize for this posting being a bit belated. It is extremely busy this time of year for us with Bear season rapidly approaching and also, I wanted to see how the meetings were reported in the local papers as well to be able to give a complete perspective on this subject.
A little background information. In 2000-2001 I was a correspondent for a couple local papers and covered most of the subjects dealing with the outdoors and such activities in the region. At this time, many will remember the organization RESTORE: The North Maine Woods, which was attempting to bring about the creation of a National Park which encompassed the North Maine Woods, Telos region, Baxter State Park, and the Golden road beginning at the area we locals call the "dike", which is where Ambajesus and Millinocket Lakes converge. The total acreage was to be 3.1 million acres, with Baxter Park encased within it's borders. Also at this time, I would like to note that both paper mills were still operating so the economy was still good in the region. The group RESTORE was a Boston based activist organization of which Roxanne Quimby was a board member. This group was literally drove back to Boston with opposition from the region and things quieted down with people figuring the threat had been defeated. Quimby resigned from the board, stating at the time that their agenda was not the same as her own. Shortly afterward she began purchasing large parcels of land, blocking roads,taking out bridges, cutting off access, terminating camp leases, and encroaching on peoples lives and livelihood.This also included a major part of the Maine Snowmobile Associations ITS trail system linking Millinocket and East Millinockets trails to Bowlin Camps (which is a whole story in itself) and the Sherman/Patten region. This did not abode well with the locals and towns in the region which set the stage for many protests and even threats to Quimby. She retaliated in a manor that only made her image even worse and many folks went around with stickers on their vehicles stating "Ban Roxanne". Quimby stated at the first meeting that I attended in Millinocket in May that these attacks as she called them angered her deeply and she could not understand why she became the hated tyrant. However her retaliation certainly did not help her cause nor her image.
Since that time, Millinockets paper mill closed its doors and recently so did the mill in East Millinocket. Quimby, who had attempted to go over our heads had approached our Senators in Washington D.C. for support of her proposal to place the 70,000 acres she had accumulated on the eastern border of Baxter State Park and the eastern shore line of the East Branch of the Penobscot River to the National Park Service, to create a National Park.Our Senators for once did the right thing informing her that the only way they would ever consider supporting her efforts was if the local towns that would be affected supported it as well. Hence the meetings began. She also thought that since the mill closures, the towns and their people would welcome her with open arms like some kind of savior. Not so. Never to be underestimated the people of this region are strong, resilient and very set in their ways, and in fact a little hostile to anyone coming from away.
The most recent meetings have been to try to rally support for a feasibility study on the proposal of her lands to be turned over to the National Park Service and the creation of a Park. The study is meant to show all the pro's and con's of the proposal which Quimby feels will bring new life and employment to an area in desperate need of an economic boost.
This brings me to the last and most recent meeting I attended at the Medway Middle School, which was set for the purpose for the Town of Medway to bring to a vote approval or disapproval of the feasibility study with the school board (of which I have no idea why they are involved ) and the towns selectmen having already stating their support. At this time Millinocket has sent them packing with a no vote. East Millinocket has not yet joined the movement with their selectmen stating they will not give approval or speak for the towns people without the peoples support. Medway did pass approval for the feasibility study, the only ones thus far.
Now, this brings to question, do we need a National Park? In light of the current financial despair of our Nation and the fact that the National Park Service does not have enough funding to truly take care of the National Parks already in existence, how does one ethically propose the creation of yet another National Park? It would take millions to create a road system, campgrounds, and Ranger stations and whatever it is that would be needed to appropriately maintain and run a National Park. That fact alone in my opinion should be a resounding "no"! But still, do we really need another park??? I don't believe we do.
We have Baxter State Park with the majestic Mount Katahdin reaching towards the heavens smack dab in the middle. It is estimated on average that 70,000 visitors come from all over the world to visit the park. It is, depending on which way one wants to look at the, either the beginning or the end of the famed Appalachian Trail. Quimby, stated from reports from the National Park Service, that National Parks have up to three times more visitors on average yearly. However, you are talking about National Parks like Yellowstone, Glacier, the Grand Canyon, ect. This land that she proposes, although beautiful in it's own right, would only be playing off Katahdin which is already within the borders of the State Park. Oh but State Parks do not draw enough visitors; are not well known enough so Quimby says. My opinion? We could fix that, right? Why Not?
There used to be an organization called MAGIC, which was supposed to promote and attract businesses and economic growth to the region. They failed. Why? I don't know all; the details. However, would it not be in the greatest interest for another organization or committee to be created to do the job and this time, do it right? All we really need is to open some doors and a lot of eyes. Too many years have gone by with the dependency of the local paper mills to take care of us. Too many are opposed to opening the area to year round tourism wanting to keep the area, "our little secret". Times have changed and if one does not want the National Park becoming a reality even someday, they need to change as well.
Now, 70,000 visitors to Baxter Park alone is a wonderful thing, but why does the area continue to waste away? That answer is plainly visible just driving down main street in Millinocket. What does one see? Insurance agencies, a little cafe and empty storefronts with the only life at the end with the Pellitiers restaurant and the Schoodic Inn. On Central Street, the Penobscot Plaza which once housed a big department store and movie theater among other stores still sets empty with the IGA supermarket on one end and a Dollar Store on the other. What do tourists want?? Places to shop, things to see and do! We need to breath life into our communities before we can ever really thrive. We need to market our Park. Our region is so very rich in many ways with the lakes, ponds and rivers. It is an outdoors enthusiasts extravaganza provided by good ol Mother Nature and we need to open our eyes, hearts and minds to that fact. We don't need a National Park, or Roxanne Quimby to save us, we can save ourselves with some good old fashioned ingenuity.
A little background information. In 2000-2001 I was a correspondent for a couple local papers and covered most of the subjects dealing with the outdoors and such activities in the region. At this time, many will remember the organization RESTORE: The North Maine Woods, which was attempting to bring about the creation of a National Park which encompassed the North Maine Woods, Telos region, Baxter State Park, and the Golden road beginning at the area we locals call the "dike", which is where Ambajesus and Millinocket Lakes converge. The total acreage was to be 3.1 million acres, with Baxter Park encased within it's borders. Also at this time, I would like to note that both paper mills were still operating so the economy was still good in the region. The group RESTORE was a Boston based activist organization of which Roxanne Quimby was a board member. This group was literally drove back to Boston with opposition from the region and things quieted down with people figuring the threat had been defeated. Quimby resigned from the board, stating at the time that their agenda was not the same as her own. Shortly afterward she began purchasing large parcels of land, blocking roads,taking out bridges, cutting off access, terminating camp leases, and encroaching on peoples lives and livelihood.This also included a major part of the Maine Snowmobile Associations ITS trail system linking Millinocket and East Millinockets trails to Bowlin Camps (which is a whole story in itself) and the Sherman/Patten region. This did not abode well with the locals and towns in the region which set the stage for many protests and even threats to Quimby. She retaliated in a manor that only made her image even worse and many folks went around with stickers on their vehicles stating "Ban Roxanne". Quimby stated at the first meeting that I attended in Millinocket in May that these attacks as she called them angered her deeply and she could not understand why she became the hated tyrant. However her retaliation certainly did not help her cause nor her image.
Since that time, Millinockets paper mill closed its doors and recently so did the mill in East Millinocket. Quimby, who had attempted to go over our heads had approached our Senators in Washington D.C. for support of her proposal to place the 70,000 acres she had accumulated on the eastern border of Baxter State Park and the eastern shore line of the East Branch of the Penobscot River to the National Park Service, to create a National Park.Our Senators for once did the right thing informing her that the only way they would ever consider supporting her efforts was if the local towns that would be affected supported it as well. Hence the meetings began. She also thought that since the mill closures, the towns and their people would welcome her with open arms like some kind of savior. Not so. Never to be underestimated the people of this region are strong, resilient and very set in their ways, and in fact a little hostile to anyone coming from away.
The most recent meetings have been to try to rally support for a feasibility study on the proposal of her lands to be turned over to the National Park Service and the creation of a Park. The study is meant to show all the pro's and con's of the proposal which Quimby feels will bring new life and employment to an area in desperate need of an economic boost.
This brings me to the last and most recent meeting I attended at the Medway Middle School, which was set for the purpose for the Town of Medway to bring to a vote approval or disapproval of the feasibility study with the school board (of which I have no idea why they are involved ) and the towns selectmen having already stating their support. At this time Millinocket has sent them packing with a no vote. East Millinocket has not yet joined the movement with their selectmen stating they will not give approval or speak for the towns people without the peoples support. Medway did pass approval for the feasibility study, the only ones thus far.
Now, this brings to question, do we need a National Park? In light of the current financial despair of our Nation and the fact that the National Park Service does not have enough funding to truly take care of the National Parks already in existence, how does one ethically propose the creation of yet another National Park? It would take millions to create a road system, campgrounds, and Ranger stations and whatever it is that would be needed to appropriately maintain and run a National Park. That fact alone in my opinion should be a resounding "no"! But still, do we really need another park??? I don't believe we do.
We have Baxter State Park with the majestic Mount Katahdin reaching towards the heavens smack dab in the middle. It is estimated on average that 70,000 visitors come from all over the world to visit the park. It is, depending on which way one wants to look at the, either the beginning or the end of the famed Appalachian Trail. Quimby, stated from reports from the National Park Service, that National Parks have up to three times more visitors on average yearly. However, you are talking about National Parks like Yellowstone, Glacier, the Grand Canyon, ect. This land that she proposes, although beautiful in it's own right, would only be playing off Katahdin which is already within the borders of the State Park. Oh but State Parks do not draw enough visitors; are not well known enough so Quimby says. My opinion? We could fix that, right? Why Not?
There used to be an organization called MAGIC, which was supposed to promote and attract businesses and economic growth to the region. They failed. Why? I don't know all; the details. However, would it not be in the greatest interest for another organization or committee to be created to do the job and this time, do it right? All we really need is to open some doors and a lot of eyes. Too many years have gone by with the dependency of the local paper mills to take care of us. Too many are opposed to opening the area to year round tourism wanting to keep the area, "our little secret". Times have changed and if one does not want the National Park becoming a reality even someday, they need to change as well.
Now, 70,000 visitors to Baxter Park alone is a wonderful thing, but why does the area continue to waste away? That answer is plainly visible just driving down main street in Millinocket. What does one see? Insurance agencies, a little cafe and empty storefronts with the only life at the end with the Pellitiers restaurant and the Schoodic Inn. On Central Street, the Penobscot Plaza which once housed a big department store and movie theater among other stores still sets empty with the IGA supermarket on one end and a Dollar Store on the other. What do tourists want?? Places to shop, things to see and do! We need to breath life into our communities before we can ever really thrive. We need to market our Park. Our region is so very rich in many ways with the lakes, ponds and rivers. It is an outdoors enthusiasts extravaganza provided by good ol Mother Nature and we need to open our eyes, hearts and minds to that fact. We don't need a National Park, or Roxanne Quimby to save us, we can save ourselves with some good old fashioned ingenuity.
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