Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine, Fall 1981 by Maine State Library

MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Vol. 23, No. 3

Fall 1981

Governor Joseph E. Brennan

Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Glenn H. Manuel J. William Peppard Kenneth H . Anderson David 0. Locke John F. Marsh Lyndon H. Bond Peter C. Brazier Robert W. Boettger W. Thomas Shoener Clayton G. Grant Henry R. Sleeper Lorenzo J. Gaudreau Alfred L. Meister

Commissioner Deputy Commissioner Director, Planning and Co-ordination Superintendent of Hatcheries Chief Warden Chief, Fishery Division Business Manager Chief, Wildlife Division Director, Public Information Chief, Engineering Division Chief, Realty Division Director, Recreational Safety and Registration Chief Biologist, Atlantic Salmon Commission

INSIDE 1980 Deer SeasonOne For The Record

Warden Service K-9s

Deborah Pa/man

Hunting In Maine-Who, What, Where, And Why

Mark W. Anderson Alan S. Kezis Stephen D. Reiling

''LOST HUNTER''

Gareth S. Anderson

KID-BITS

Annual Report Section

Fish And Wildlife Briefs

THE COVERS Front: His majesty, the moose, Maine's state animal, strikes a royal pose as a friend relaxes on the ground at his feet. This striking photograph of the largest animal in the Maine woods was taken by Henry Harding of York, Maine. Inside Front: Goose hunting is a favorite pastime of many Maine hunters-and what better way to retrieve the downed birds than a faithful, well-trained Labrador retriever? Photo by Bill Cross. Inside Back: Chart of Maine's 1981 hunting seasons. Back: Warden Sgt. William Allen and Satan, one of two "K-9s" now assisting the Warden Service, are a close-knit team. See related article beginning on page 3. Photo by Tom Carbone.

Advisory Council Rodney W. Ross, Chairman Brownville, Maine Robert E. Moore Ralph L. Noel

Casco Auburn Dennis L. Smith George E. Prentiss Otter Creek Rumford Alva S. Appleby Nathan Cohen Skowhegan Eastport Francis D. Dunn Patten

Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine W. Thomas Shoener, Editor Thomas J. Chamberlain, Managing Editor Thomas L. Carbone, Photographer Patricia J . Hogan, Editorial Assistant

All photographs in this issue were made by the Public Information Division unless otherwise indicated.

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE (ISSN 0360-005X) is published quarterly by the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 284 State St., Station 41, Augusta, ME 04333, under Appropriation 4550. Subscription rate: $6.00 per year . No stamps, please. Second class postage paid at Augusta, ME 04330. ÂŠ Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 1981. Permission to reprint text material is granted , provided proper credit is given to the author and to MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE. Clearance must be obtained from artists, photographers, and non-staff authors to reproduce credited work.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Send both old and new addresses to Circulation Section, MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine, 284 State St., Sta. #41, Augusta, ME 04333. Allow six weeks for change to take effect. Your post office cannot forward copies unless you provide forwarding postage. POSTMASTER: If undeliverable, send form 3579 to Circulation Section, MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine, 284 State St., Sta. #41, Augusta, ME 04333.

1980 DEER SEASON -

But, as it turned out, the deer was really a female and, at 210 pounds, an exceptionally big one at that! Despite his deer's sex, Cross was granted membership in The Biggest Bucks in Maine Club.

ONE FOR THE RECORDS

HE 1980 moose season also produced some tremendous animals. Tied for top honors for the heaviest moose were two that weighed 1,070 pounds, field dressed. They were taken by James A. Webber of Sanford, in T.10,R.8 Aroostook County; and Jack Ireland of Presque Isle, in T.10,R.10 Aroostook County. The rack from Webber's moose, after drying, weighed a tremendous 55 pounds! The moose with the greatest antler spread-64 inches-was taken by Eugene Thuotte of Westbrook, in T.7,R.14 Piscataquis County. Dorothea Brady, Waldoboro, shot the moose with the most antler points31-in T .6,R.6 Penobscot County. The first place award for moose in the Maine Antler and Skull Trophy Club went to Lewis Cole of Thorndike. His big bull also made the North American Big Game Record Book minimum and was one of four moose taken in 1980 known to have qualified for Boone and Crockett Club recognition. Listed in the table below are the very biggest of the 665 big bucks entered in The Biggest Bucks in â&#x20AC;˘ Maine Club in 1980.

HE SETTING of several new records highlighted Maine's 1980 deer hunting season. Although the final deer kill-37 ,255-was not a record, the 40 percent increase over the previous year's harvest was. Contributing substantially to the big increase were the exceptionally easy 1979-80 winter and better hunting conditions than in 1979. Also, an all-time record number of hunters-233,369-were licensed to hunt deer, including a record number of Maine residents-198,738. The number of nonresident hunters34,631-represented an increase of about 500, but the total was still about 7,000 short of the record set in 1970. Bow and arrow hunters also had their records. The number of nonresident archers-759-was a new record, as was the 107 deer kill by all archers. Another entry in the record books in 1980 was the all-time-high entry total in The Biggest Bucks in Maine Club: 665, a big jump from the previous record of 615, set only the year before. To qualify for the club, which

Jack Cross and his antlered doe.

is run by The Maine Sportsman, a deer must weigh at least 200 pounds, field dressed. Two individual deer taken in 1980 also represented new records. A 12 point buck taken in Sebago by Patrick Wescott of Westbrook set a new state record for typical antlers entered in the Maine Antler and Skull Trophy Club. And an unusual state record, for antlered does, was set by Jack Cross of Bethel. Hunting near his home, Cross shot a big, handsome deer with an eight-point set of antlers.

BIGGEST BUCKS, 1980

Name

Address

Date Killed

Curtis Michaud Ted Leclair Claude Delisle Jean L. Marquis Chris Dunham Francis Owens Leo J. Hatheway Frank Homstead James Lane Dwayne Burch Ricky M. York Harold Torre Dana Purington L. Pitt Warren Patrick J. Dubord Clyde Trask Arthur Raymond Hart

Mars Hill, ME Bethel, VT St. Adolphe De Dudswell, Quebec Soldier Pond, ME Avon, ME Caribou, ME Freeport, ME Pittsfield, ME Waterville, ME Brunswick, ME Cornish, ME North Ferrisburg, VT Phillips, ME Kennebunk, ME Augusta, ME Augusta, ME East Douglas, MA

11-7-80 11-4-80 11-5-80 11-10-80 11-21-80 11-25-80 11-18-80 11-12-80 11-1-80 11-11-80 11-14-80 11-10-80 11-1-80 11-14-80 11-20-80 11-8-80 11-4-80

Where Killed

Westfield Clayton Lake Spencer Pond Telos Avon Blackstone Siding Brunswick Chain of Ponds Soldiertown Solon Brownfield Stratton Kingfield Rangeley area Rockwood Strip Augusta Greenville

Dressed Weight

Live Weight

280 267 265 263 262 260 260 260 258 258 257 257 254 253 253 253 253

364 347 344 342 340 338 338 338 335 335 334 334 330 329 329 329 329

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

WARDEN SERVICE

By Warden Deborah Palman Photos by Tom Carbone

NE COOL, QUIET NIGHT in September,

a district warden receives a call from a farmer who has seen a light and heard shots in his back orchard. Arriving at the farm about ten minutes later, the warden realizes that whoever is hunting the area is on foot and probably already knows the warden is at the farm. The warden radios a neighboring warden with a trained K-9 dog, and 15 minutes later the K-9 team arrives and they walk up into the orchard. The local warden waits at the edge of the area while the team starts searching on the down wind side. The K-9 handler urges his dog on, saying "Find it, where's the deer . .. deer." The K-9 quarters eagerly in front of the warden like a hunting dog, the long grass swishing as he runs. The warden, trying not to use a f/oshlight which might distract the dog, can just see the K-9 in the faint light. Suddenly the K-9 stops, turns and runs upwind with his head held high. His quartering narrows until he stops near an apple tree and begins to sniff the ground. Using his flashlight, the Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

handler finds a trampled area and a large smear of clotting blood. Praising the dog, he urges him on again. The K-9 circles the area then begins to follow a trail where the deer was half-dragged and half-carried toward the woods. About 15 yards into the woods the dog stops at a freshly killed doe concealed under some brush and leaves. The warden praises the dog and puts a harness and long lead on it saying "Track, track . .. leave it, track." The K-9 fusses with the deer, and after more praise and commands, begins to cast around for a track. Hitting the track, the K-9 starts off with the warden in tow, the warden struggling to follow through the brush and trees. After a few minutes, the lead suddenly slacks, and the warden follows up its length to the K-9 which is pawing and sniffing at the ground. The flashlight reveals a rifle buried under some leaves. The warden marks a bush with his handkerchief and continues on, encouraged because he has found the weapon, and knowing the nighthunter is probably unarmed. A hundred feet from the rifle, the

lead again goes slack and the K-9 begins to circle a large pine. The warden grins as he lights up the branches with his flashlight. About fifteen feet up, a man is standing on the branches, clutching the tree trunk. The warden orders the man down, and he can see fresh blood and hair on the man's pants as the suspect climbs down.

S ILLUSTRATED in this story, a dog's scenting ability can solve crimes which would seem impossible for an officer without a K-9. Police K-9s have been used extensively in the United States for the last ten years, but only recently have fully trained K-9s been used in wildlife law enforcement. Although some wardens have regularly taken dogs with them in their work-some trained to locate game or people, others just for their good companyit wasn't until last year that the Maine Warden Service had any trained K-9s. In the spring and summer of 1980, Sergeant William Allen and Warden Deborah Palman acquired and fully trained (at their own expense) the first 3

Warden Deborah Palman illustrates a tracking exercise used when trying to locate missing persons or law violaters. While the longer leash is harder to follow it allows the dog to quarter a larger area.

two police K-9s used in the Maine Warden Service. Both dogs, male German shepherds, were obtained from Sukee Kennels in Warren, Maine. The usefulness of these K-9s is reflected by their helping to solve wildlife violations which produced over $5,000 in fines during the fall of 1980. In addition, assistance by the State Police K-9 teams in wildlife cases produced another $1,000 in fines that fall. Most of the violators in these cases would not have been appre-

hended and convicted without the help of the K-9s. The Warden Service K-9s have assisted other police agencies with cases involving a rape, a burglary, a stolen car, an armed robbery, and a search for two prison escapees. Sgt. Allen and his K-9 Satan recently tracked two armed robbery suspects over a mile from the crime scene to the door of the suspects' house. Like most modern police K-9s, the Warden Service K-9s have had extensive training in many different areas. The training of, and demands on, police K-9s are so rigorous that just finding a dog suitable for K-9 training can be difficult. For example, ap-

proximately only one in 30 young German shepherds is physically and mentally sound enough to make a good police K-9. The Warden Service K-9s are trained in obedience on and off lead and to surmount various obstacles on command. They also track and find objects with human and game scent, protect their handler, and help apprehend criminals. A police K-9 must be under strict control at all times, and while the K-9 learns to obey and work for the handler, the handler learns how the K-9 communicates to the handler what he has found. The United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) has a working standard for K-9s and annually holds field trials to test the teams and provide competition. The Maine Warden Service K-9 teams scored second and third out of 15 teams in the 1981 Region Nine (Maine) trials held in Orono, with scores of 536.64 and 528.15 out of 600 points. First place went to a U.S. Army K-9 team from Virginia. Both Warden Service teams exceeded the 420 points needed for the USPCA Police Dog I qualification. The Warden Service K-9s have been used to search for lost persons,

While on a tracking exercise, the author examines a rifle that the K-9 has located. It might have been discarded by the violator and could be used as evidence.

but usually by the time a warden is called, the search area has been contaminated with scent of others searching on their own, and a tracking dog like the K-9s cannot be used. Because of their training in tracking, police K-9s aren't normally used to locate people by air scent except when they must be used to apprehend criminals. Fortunately, a volunteer group called the Pine Tree K-9 Search and Rescue Team has dogs trained to find lost persons by air scent, and they are very efficient even in areas which have been contaminated by other searchers. They have assisted the Warden Service several times and, during a

Sgt. William Allen ' s K-9, Satan, leaps from the automobile in pursuit of a violator who is armed and trying to escape. Satan will keep the violator at bay until the warden can reach him.

As the warden searches the suspect, the K-9 stands guard, protecting the warden against any sudden acts of aggression. These K-9' s would give their lives without hesitation to defend their handlers.

search in the Rangeley area, found a lost woman under a brush pile after wardens and other searchers had covered the area on foot.

EVERAL OTHER Maine game wardens now have dogs in training at their own expense, and the Warden Service is in the process of establishing guidelines

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

Warden K-9s are also trained in scent searches and are used in the detection of game procurred illegally. Here, Satan leads Sgt. Allen to meat, possibly illegally obtained, in the trunk of the car.

for the use and training of K-9s. Results thus far show that trained K-9s can be a great help to the Warden Service . One of the greatest assets of the K-9s is knowing that these loyal partners work for praise alone and would give their lives without hesitation to defend their handlers, who patrol in places where the nearest human help is often an hour or more away. â&#x20AC;˘ 5

Hunting in Maine Who,What,Where, and Why By Mark W. Anderson, Alan S. Kezis, and Stephen D. Reiling

HE DEPARTMENT of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Maine in Orono has a program of teaching and research on topics related to outdoor recreation in Maine. In recent years, researchers have conducted studies on hunting and fishing in the state, the commercial campground industry, the economic aspects of hunting and fishing license fees, and the costs of providing public outdoor recreation facilities. The general objective of these studies is to provide policymakers and management agencies with the information they need to manage the recreational resources of the state effectively for the maximum benefit of the users. But we also recognize that the information obtained from these studies is of interest to the people who participate in and enjoy Maine's vast recreational opportunities. This is the first of two articles designed to share some of this information. This article focuses on the results of a study of hunting in Maine. The findings are based on a large sample of residents and nonresidents who hunted in Maine in 1977. Individuals in the sample were asked to provide information about themselves, their 1977 hunting activities in Maine, and their attitudes toward hunting. Based upon the responses received, we can now answer the questions of "who, what, where, and why" of hunting in Maine.

HO IS THE MAINE HUNTER? The study makes it possible to construct a profile of the typical Maine hunter. One of the first observations that becomes evident is that, in a very real sense, there are two distinct kinds of hunters in Maine: those who live in Maine and those whp live elsewhere but hunt in Maine. While resident and nonresident hunters are similar in some aspects, the two groups differ from each other in many ways. Some of the similarities and differences are illustrated below. Another fact that stands out is that the vast majority of Maine hunters are males. About 93 percent of the resident hunters and virtually all of the nonresident hunters are male. Although most hunters are married and have chilThe authors are associated with the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of Maine at Orono. Anderson is a research associate, Kezis and Reiling are assistant professors.

dren, hunting is less of a family-oriented activity than other outdoor recreation activities such as open water fishing. The typical hunting party is composed of unrelated males, usually friends and acquaintances. Some resident hunters are of the opinion that nonresidents are less experienced hunters than residents. The survey results do not support this contention. On the average, nonresident hunters have slightly more years of hunting experience than resident hunters (24. 7 years for nonresidents versus 23 . 5 years for residents). This is partially due to the fact that, at 41 years of age, the average nonresident hunter is almost two years older than his resident counterpart. Nonresidents were also more regular in their purchase of hunting licenses during the period of 19721977. Resident hunters, on the other hand, began hunting at a slightly younger age than nonresidents (14.9 years versus 15.9 years, respectively). Since many of the nonresidents currently reside in southern New England, New York, and other more urbanized states in the Northeast, the living environment and socioeconomic characteristics of this group are significantly different than those of resident hunters. For example, nonresidents grew up and currently reside in communities that are much larger than the respective communities of residents. Furthermore, on the average, nonresidents have higher average family incomes, have received higher levels of education and are more likely to be employed in the service, managerial or professsional occupations. Nevertheless, the largest occupation class for both resident and nonresident hunters is the craftsmanforeman class. Hunters in the two groups are similar in that they are all very active in other outdoor recreational activities. For example, 80 percent of the hunters in both groups also fish. However, there are also major differences in the other activities the two groups pursue. Nonresidents have higher participation rates for swimming, golf, target and skeet shooting, team sports, and horseback riding. Of course, more populated areas are more conducive to these activities. Resident hunters participate more in rural-oriented and/ or winter-related activities such as canoeing, crosscountry skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Resident and nonresidents are also similar in their level of ownership of selected recreational vehicles and equipment. Over one-fourth of the hunters in both categories

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

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own a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a canoe or duck boat. A higher percentage of nonresident hunters own a pickup camper or camping trailers, whereas three times as many residents own snowmobiles. Hunters' strong interest in outdoor-related activities is also characterized by the type of clubs they join and the magazines they read. This statement is especially applicable to nonresident hunters. More than two-thirds of the out-of-state hunters are members of outdoor-related clubs such as hunting and/or fishing clubs, target or skeet shooting clubs, or other more specialized organizations. Nonresidents also have subscriptions for an average of about two outdoor-related magazines. Residents are less likely to be members of clubs and they subscribe to fewer outdoor magazines. In summary, we can describe the general characteristics of the average Maine hunter. Even though differences exist between residents and nonresidents, the typical hunter is male, about 40 years of age, has been hunting since he was a teenager, is active in other outdoor activities, has a strong interest in the out-of-doors, and owns considerable quantities of recreational equipment to facilitate the participation in and enjoyment of outdoor recreational activities.

HAT DO HUNTERS HUNT? A wide variety of game species are hunted in Maine; however, deer easily rank as the favorite species of game. Seventy percent of the resident hunters' time and 85 percent of the nonresidents' time is spent in pursuit of deer. Ruffed grouse is the only other species that accounts for more than 10 percent of the total hunting effort of residents or nonresidents. Grouse account for about 12 percent of the hunting efforts of residents. The second most popular species for nonresidents is bear, which accounts for about 9 percent of their hunting time. In contrast, residents devote less than 2 percent of their effort to bear. It is interesting to note that bear and deer account for almost 94 percent of the hunting time of nonresidents but only 71 percent of the effort of residents. The remaining proportion of the hunting time of residents is used to pursue a wide variety of birds and small game. Some of the more popular species include snowshoe hare, ducks, pheasant, woodcock, and sea ducks. Fox, bobcat, and coyote collectively accounted for only about 1 percent of the hunting time of residents. Several factors contribute to the concentration of nonresident hunting time in pursuit of bear and deer. Many nonresidents travel considerable distances and incur large time and money costs to hunt in Maine. Therefore, it is only reasonable that they would choose to hunt the major game species during extended hunting trips, to spread the fixed travel costs over as many days as possible. In addition, many of the small game and bird species are more available for hunting in, or nearer, their state of residence. Therefore, there is no need to incur the expense of traveling to Maine to hunt those species. In contrast, deer and

bear may not be prevalant in their home state so they travel to Maine to hunt these species.

HERE IS THE HUNT? With interests in different game species and different kinds of hunting trips (more on that below), it stands to reason that residents and nonresidents would hunt in different areas of the state. This definitely turns out to be the case. Over 60 percent of the nonresident hunting effort is carried out in Wildlife Management Units, 2, 3, and 4, the northern and western areas of the state. Here, deer and bear hunting can be more easily combined, and services and facilities for hunting vacations are more readily available. Over 60 percent of resident hunting effort is carried out in Units 4, 7, and 8. These areas are close to population centers and thus are more accessible for day trips and even for hunting before and after work. In addition, since residents are more likely to hunt smaller game than nonresidents they need not travel as far for their hunting. Overall, nearly 30 percent of the total hunting effort occurs in Unit 4, the central and southwest portion of the state. This is the area that is relatively close to population Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

centers and contains significant stocks of deer, the major species of interest to both resident and nonresident hunters. It is also in this area that residents and nonresidents are most likely to encounter each other while hunting. Residents and nonresidents often hunt on different types of land. Over 80 percent of the resident hunters hunt on their own land or on non-paper-company private lands. Nonresidents hunt most on paper company land as well as other private lands. They also are more likely to hunt on state-owned lands. These differences may reflect the situation where nonresidents have a slightly harder time obtaining permission from land owners to hunt, or they may reflect the different land ownership patterns where the two groups tend to hunt the most. In either case, the vast majority of hunters are able to obtain permision to hunt on private lands with little or no difficulty.

HY HUNT? People hunt for numerous reasons, many of them reflecting the culture in which they were brought up. The first hunting experiences of an individual certainly affects the way the hunter comes to look on the nature of the hunt. For resident hunters, a member of the family was responsible for the initial hunting experience most of the time. The majority of nonresidents were most often introduced to hunting by a friend or other acquaintance, or they took it up by themselves. The motivations that hunters say lead them to continue to hunt vary little between residents and nonresidents. Forty percent of both groups stated that enjoyment of nature was the most important reason for hunting. The challenge of pursuing wild game and escape from routine were also important motivations for both groups. The two groups expressed major differences in only two areas. Twice as many nonresident hunters stated that companionship with other hunters was most important to them. This probably reflects the fact that more nonresidents join in group hunting parties coming to Maine for several days of deer and/or bear hunting. On the other hand, nearly four times as many resident hunters said that game as a food source was their most important reason for hunting. This probably reflects the lower average incomes of resident hunters. Another interesting factor was observed in the responses hunters gave for their motivations for hunting. When the researchers looked for any differences in the motivation for hunting among the resident hunters, they found very different patterns of motivation depending upon age, educational level, marital status, and family income. Those resident hunters stressing the importance of exercise and companionship were among the oldest, while those emphasizing the challenge and being by oneself were among the youngest hunters. College graduates indicated a motivation of escaping routine more often; and hunters without a high school education indicated food source more often than other resident hunters. Single resident hunters were more interested in the challenge of the sport, while married

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

resident hunters appeared to be interested in hunting as a source of food as well as escape from routine. As might be expected, hunting for food was much more important among lower income resident hunters, while escape from routine was increasingly important among higher income resident hunters. Nonresident hunters showed virtually none of these differences. This suggests that nonresident hunters are a relatively homogeneous group and can more easily satisfy their desire to have an enjoyable recreational experience. There is much more diversity among the resident hunters, implying that they demand more from the public and private systems set up to serve the hunter.

HE HUNTING TRIP. A central part of any outdoor recreation is the trip itself. For the hunter using his own land, the trip may be a relatively inconsequential walk through the backyard. For the nonresident hunter, the trip is a major part of the experience, providing much of the companionship that the experience entails. The trip is also the time when hunters will make many of the expenditures that make hunting an important economic activity for the state. In 1977, resident hunters spent over $28-million pursuing their sport; nonresident hunters spent nearly $11-million, much of which was spent within Maine. As mentioned above, resident hunters will often enjoy day trips close to home. Hence, they are likely to hunt often during the year. The average resident hunter hunted 14.5 days in Maine in 1977 and spent about $16 per day. This contrasts to an average of 9.4 days and a daily expenditure of approximately $47 per day by nonresident hunters. This is indicative, in part, of the nature of the nonresident stay in Maine. They must travel relatively greater distances to Maine hunting areas than residents and they incur higher expenses for accommodations. The nonresident hunter seems more intent on "getting his money's worth" from the experience. He hunts about eight hours in an average day, whereas the resident typically spends a little less than six hours. It is also of interest to note that when asked to place a dollar value on an average day of hunting, the nonresident hunter placed a higher value on the experience than did the resident ($62 versus $49). The hunting trip is obviously quite a different experience for the two groups. But these differences reflect the different social and economic characteristics of hunters in the Maine woods as well as some different motivations for hunting. Of course there are exceptions to the generalized pictures we have drawn. There are many resident hunters who pursue bear and deer in northwestern Aroostook County in excursions that last several days, and there are nonresidents who hunt ruffed grouse in York County and spend only a few hours a day doing so. Despite the differences between the two groups they share in common the enjoyment of the nature of Maine's woods and fields as they pursue the time-honored sport of hunting. â&#x20AC;˘ 9

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True Story of a Search

''LOST HUNTER!'' By Gareth S. Anderson Safety Officer

T IS MID-NOVEMBER, late in the afternoon.

A heavy wet snow is falling, and many businesses have sent their employees home. As I go 10-8 with Augusta, there is already radio traffic on lost hunters. "Augusta to 1245." " 10-3 Augusta." "I have a possible 10-60 on Route 191 in the Tritown area. The hunter left home at daylight and was due home at noon. His A unit is afraid he's lost or hurt." 10

"10-4 Augusta, will take care of it." That one was very near my own 10-20. I called. "1398to 1245." "Go ahead, 1398." "I'm close, can I help you?" "10-4! Meet you at the 4-corner store." "10-4. I'll be there in five minutes." At the scene, there are a couple of locals who know the area. The division lieutenant and division sergeant both happen to be nearby and are enroute. Time is 1600 hours. Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

It is decided that 1245 will serve as HQ at his vehicle. I go to the landowner and am given a hand-drawn map of the surrounding area, including wood roads and accesses. One particular road is well travelled by hunters and cuts the area about in half. It is decided that a series of shots will be fired directly behind the landowner's home. But no answer is received. Only the constant hissing of the fast-falling, heavy snow. I study my own tracks while this is going on. Time is checked frequently to see how quickly the tracks fill in. This will be vital should the victim have to be run down. At search center, it is agreed that I will walk the bisecting road for one half-hour over, then return. Since we do not yet have any portable radios on the scene, I agree not to leave the road, and to mark my progress in the snow every 100 yards. At this time we receive new information, and it is not good. The hunter had not taken a compass, had only taken a few cartridges, had shot a small buck at about 1300, and had dragged it in a confused circle until about 1500. He had then abandoned it and had nearly walked out when he met another hunter. During their chat, it became obvious that the subject was badly disoriented, wet, cold, and worst of all, determined to go deeper into the woods rather than follow the hunter, who had a compass. A large crowd of neighbors, relatives, fire department offioials, etc., are now on hand. All are anxious to go in and search. Lt. Marsh and Sgt. Crabtree have arrived and are now in charge. They are emphatic that no one is to go in without three other people. They are to have flashlights, spare bulbs and batteries, at least one compass, and wear boots and adequate clothing. They are to stay together and no one is to have firearms. This is to prevent a searcher from being mistaken for the lost person and of course, prevent an accidental shooting. It is evident that many are not in agreement with these plans-several are actually angry. The supplies needed are sent for, however, and the fire chief leaves to organize the auxiliary to prepare sandwiches, coffee, and cookies. The time is now 1800; everything possible has been done to prepare for what may be a lengthy search.

LEA VE TO WALK the bisecting road. At yard 850, I strike running footprints headed out on the bisect road; the track is in the opposite wheel rut, and leads directly out of the rut and back into the woods on the same side!! He has panicked!! The amount of snow in the footprints indicate they were made within an hour and a half. They are irregular and indicate some slipping, although in about a hundred yards of travel the runner has not fallen. Âˇ This is the only clue thus far that may be tied to the lost hunter. The section in which the hunter is suspected to be is a projection of woods. It is a fairly large area shaped like a neck. It is decided to continue to form search parties, but to allow a party of four of the most vocal and anxious to sweep the neck while the others get into position.

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

During all this, the perimeter is being patrolled by people who have CB radios. Sirens are sounded at strategic points, and chain saws are also sounded at regular intervals at nearby elevations. Everyone is worried that the hunter will turn east-if he does, he will be right back where he started. Just as several parties are in final position strung out along the field edge, a shout is heard. They've found him in the smaller section of woods. The recall signal is sounded, and all wait to see the hunter. It is now 1930 hours and there is some time to reflect-it is evident Lt. Marsh and Sgt. Crabtree are satisfied that the search has had a good outcome. No searchers have been lost, there have been no accidents, and it is still possible to get people off the highways early. The hunter is brought out and lifted over a stock fence. He was down when found; he had fallen several times in his last hundred yards, and is extremely hypothermic. He cannot light a cigarette, and cannot hold one when it is lit for him. He doesn't recognize anyone, but insists he's fine. His boots are crusted ice, as are his pants. He is thoroughly wet, cotton gloves included; parts of his gloves are frozen. He still has his rifle, which became useless when he fired his shells too early. It has to be taken from him by force, and it is then that a relative at the scene is convinced that the hunter should be taken to the hospital, where he stayed for several days. We learn later that his temperature was six points below normal when he was admitted. We are invited to the firehouse for hot coffee and sandwiches. Several searchers there are still upset with Lt. Marsh and Sgt. Crabtree for being too cautious. One drops the remark, "We would've had him out a lot earlier if it hadn't have been for those wardens!'' Marsh and Crabtree say nothing, but walk to their cars. There are still hunters lost elsewhere in their division-and you can bet they'll use caution when they send searchers out this time, too.

EPILOGUE Scenarios like the one you have just read are repeated over and over again each year. You need not be wildly imaginative to be prepared for sudden turns of immobilizing weather, or for injuries. Enroll in a hunter safety class or a first aid course at your earliest opportunity. In the meantime, think all situations through carefully, and try to anticipate problems and their solutions each time you take a trip or hunt. Always tell someone where you're going, and when you expect to return. Don't deviate from your trip plan unless you inform someone. Carry a compass, whistle, spare ammo, some rations, and water-proofed matches. Dress â&#x20AC;˘ warmly, and try to stay dry. Good hunting! 11

WEATHER WATCH

2 1 Birds can be seen perching when a storm is approaching because low-pressure air is less dense and makes it harder to fly.

Lightning appearing in west or northwest skies usually means the storm will reach you. Storms appearing in the south or southwest will usually travel away from you.

3 In good weather, waterfowl will usually fly higher because low air pressure affects their ears.

''HOl.tOW '

.SOUNDS 12

The next time that distant sounds are loud and hollow, prepare for a rainstorm. Lowering clouds will act like a sounding board.

In the Summer 1981 KID-BITS, Weather Watch I, we discussed how to foretell the weather by using the sky as a weather indicator. Here, in Weather Watch 2, we will look at twelve other ways to help us determine whether it will rain or not. Long before the science of meteorology, men depended on these ancient rules to help them predict the weather. The basis of these rules is rooted in scientific principles similar to those used by meteorologists today. The reason for this can be explained by our modern knowledge of the factors that produce weather. For example, the old saying, Red sky at night, sailors delight, red sky in morning, sailors take warning. The scientific explanation is simple. Weather usually moves from west to east. Therefore, when you look toward the sunset, you are looking through air that will reach you tomorrow. If the air is wet and rainy, the sunset sky will be gray or yellow-if it's dry and clear, the sunset sky will be deep red.

5 If you observe dew on grass at night or in the early morning, it is a sign of fair weather. This occurs only when the air is dry and the skies are clear.

6 Rising smoke usually indicates good weather coming. Lowering pressure and unstable air before a rainstorm will drive smoke downward.

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

Letters should be sent to:

Just as fish live in the sea, we live in an ocean of air. But this ocean of air is not level. It is piled high like mountains, scooped out like valleys. The barometer, an instrument used in measuring the weight of the atmosphere, gives a high reading under a mountain of air, or a low reading under a valley. That's why we refer to the mountains as high pressure areas or highs and the valleys as low pressure areas or lows. High pressure areas generally mean good weather, while low pressure areas mean stormy weather is ahead. Other factors such as moisture and temperature must also be considered. Your local newspaper probably carries a section on weather forecasts. If so, they probably also have a good weather map. By reading this map, you will be able to see the recent location of pressure areas, and get an idea of what is headed your way. By using these and other methods, you will be able to accurately predict the weather.

.:;;:;s;--

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

High visibility over salt water usually indicates that rain is on the way. Salty haze is usually dispelled by unstable air currents.

Patricia Hogan, KID-BITS Editor Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine 284 State Street, Sta. #41 Augusta, ME 04333

9 When humidity appears in the air, rain is more likely at low tide rather than at high tide. Falling tide usually reduces atmospheric pressure.

10 Face the wind and the storm will be on your right. In this hemisphere, the winds circle lows counterclockwise.

11 Odors that are held captive by high atmospheric pressures are released when the barometer drops. Smells are always strongest before a rainstorm .

Leaves will show their backs before a rainstorm . They grow according to prevailing wind-when the wind changes, therefore, the leaves turn over.

High clouds won't produce rain, no matter how threatening they appear. The lowering clouds are the ones to watch.

Annual Report of Operations, Fiscal. Financial Statement By Peter Brazier Business Services Manager

The Income Dollar

The Department reflected a sound financial condition at June 30, 1981. A reasonable cash balance was maintained throughout the year. Conservative spending, better cost accounting, and increased revenues have all contributed to this sound condition. Revenues increased approximately 11 percent from the prior fiscal year largely as a result of increased federal aid, a 7 percent increase in numbers of resident fishermen, increased transfers from watercraft/snowmobile registrations and the first full fiscal year with the new license fee schedule, effective January 1, 1980. Increases in revenues, however, were primarily offset by increases in costs, including payroll increases, increases in gasoline and related vehicle operating costs, price increases for feeds and a general inflationary trend affecting all other goods and services needed to operate the department's programs. Awareness of this continuing financial problem has prompted the department to institute its tight money management program. Success of this program is evident, since expenditures exceeded revenues only by 1 / 10 of one percent. We are continually searching for ways to broaden our revenue base, reduce our expenditures, and improve our cost accounting system. During fiscal 1981 the department went "on-line" with the State Central Computer Services in order to closely monitor and maintain more than 1,000 license agent accounts. Additionally, the decision was made to tie in with the Budget Control System used by other state agencies. This system, which will allow the daily monitoring of the department's financial condition, is expected to be fully operational by the end of the first quarter of fiscal 1982.

Nonresident hunting licen ses 26.2%

Resident fi shing licenses 9.8%

All other revenues 2.6% Contributions from General Fund 0.1 OJo

Resident combination licenses 14.3%

Federal aid 16.2%

~ Resident hunting licenses 8.8%

Year July 1, 1980 to June 30, 1981 The Expense Dollar

Support services 8.3%. / /

Wildlife ma nagement 14.5 %

Fishery management 16.9%

Summary of Operationsa Cash Balance Jul y l, 1980 Add : Adjustment s to Balance Forward Adjusted Cash Balance Add: Revenues Tran sfers Deduct: Expenditures Encumbrances

$2,822,819 1,824 2,824,643

$8,630,318 330,000

$8,960,318

8,969,923 171,131

9,141,054

Net Decrease in Unencumbered Cash Balance

(180,736)

Unencumbered Cash Balance June 30, 1981 Less Cash Reserves: Operating Capital Gray Headquarters Building

2,643,907

Balance of Unreserved Cash

1,000,000 50,000

$I ,593,907b

aExcludes Snowmobile a nd Watercraft Registration , la nd acqui sitio n , and Atlantic Sea Run Salmon Commission bBala nce ava il able to cover sa la ri es a nd other costs of collective bargaining, as well as other un specified proj ects

Recreational Safety and Registration Lorenzo J. Gaudreau, Director

During the 1980 / 81 fiscal year the division continued their safety efforts to reduce hunting, boating, and snowmobiling accidents. No matter what recreational activity you pursue, there is a risk involved-whether the risk is high or low depends on the participants. This is where our safety programs come in, making people aware of the potential hazards through education. The most productive way to educate in terms of accident prevention is by examining known causes of accidents; the most important tool for this is the accident reports. In 1952, for example, Maine had 19 mistaken-for-game fatalities. Last year we had two mistaken-for-game fatalities, even with more people participating in hunting. Our volunteer hunter safety pro: gram was awarded a AAA rating by the National Rifle Assoc;iation of America and the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. This would not have been possible without the dedication of our volunteer instructors. In 1978, we had 24 fatalities involving recreational boating. Eleven were nonresidents. From our newly-developed accident coding system, we define the major problems which involved small boats used by fishermen, hunters, and paddlers during the cold water period. We developed the pamphlet "Sportsmen and Small Boats" and distributed copies statewide. With the Maine Turnpike Authority's cooperation, the pamphlets were handed out at toll booths to anyone who looked like a hunter, fisherman or paddler. In 1979, recreational boating fatalities dropped to 12, but we had 13 in 1980. This year, we published 150,000 four-page folders with the message "Cold Water Kills" and distributed these to our fishing and hunting license agents so they can be handed out when they sell licenses. We also incorporated one hour of 16

boating safety into our hunter safety program. Between 1968 and 197 5, we recorded 39 snowmobile-related fatalities in Maine, an average of one fatality to every 9,000 snowmobiles registered. Since that time, there were 17 snowmobile-related fatalities-an average of one fatal to every 21,500 snowmobiles registered. This could not have been accomplished without the help of volunteer instructors, snowmobile clubs, and an improved trails system; with the continued cooperation of everyone concerned with safety, we feel confident we can continue to reduce these accidents. Approximately 200 volunteer instructors attended the hunter and snowmobile safety workshop and banquet held in Augusta September 27, 1980. An interesting program was presented during the day, followed by a social hour and banquet. The guest speaker was well known Maine sportswriter Bud Leavitt. Regional Coordinator Woody Thompson, who has moved to Connecticut, received an award for outstanding achievements in teaching and coordinating hunter safety programs. The Snowmobile Safety Certification Commit-

tee award for outstanding achievement in snowmobile safety education was given to a husband and wife team, Nancy and Douglas Ludewig of Winthrop. During fiscal 1980-1981, the division registered 39,825 boats, issued 711 duplicate registrations, 106 dealer certificates, and 349 operator licenses, and granted 32 permits for races and regattas. We also registered 51,511 snowmobiles, issued 283 snowmobile dealer certificates, and 72 duplicate snowmobile certificates. Renewals for boats are mailed out in December each year and renewals for snowmobiles are mailed out in July of each year. Anyone interested in participating in our safety programs as a student, instructor, or sponsor may do so by contacting the appropriate recreational safety coordinator listed here, or write the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, Safety Section, 284 State St., Sta. #41, Augusta, Maine 04333. Douglas and Nancy Ludewig of Winthrop are congratulated by Larry Gaudreau, Director of Snowmobile Registration and Safety, for their outstanding achievements in snowmobile safety education.

SNOWMOBILE SAFETY COORDINATORS

HUNTER SAFETY COORDINATORS

Name and Address l. Richard E. Boothby 100 Oakland Avenue Westbrook , ME 04092 Tel : 854-4766

Counties Cumberland , Oxford (Fryeburg & South), York and Bath in Sagadahoc

Name and Address l. Charlene A . St Jean RFD 1, Box 102 Sanford, ME 04073 Tel: 324-5930

2. Flo yd W . Flagg Morrill Street Buck field , ME 04220 Tel: 336-2485

Oxford (All North of Fryeburg) Androscoggin (North o f Rt 202), Franklin, Kennebec (West of Rt 100) and Somerset

2. Ri chard E. Boothby 100 Oakland Avenue Westbrook, ME 04092 Tel : 854-4766

Cumberland , Oxford (Fryeburg & South) and Bath in Sagadahoc

3. Philip I. Morehouse Rout e I, Box 87 Windsor , ME 04363 Tel : 549-5188

Kennebec (East of Kenn . Ri ver & Rt 202) , Somerset (South of Rt 2 as far west as Skowhegan) , Knox, Lincoln a nd Sagadahoc

3. Flo yd W . Flagg Morrill Street Buckfield, ME 04220 Tel : 336-2485

Oxford (All North of Fryeburg) , Androscoggin (North of Rt 202) , Franklin , Kennebec (West of Rt 100) and Somerset

4. Donald H . Cla rk RFD I, Box 9160 Hampden Highla nd s, ME 04445 Tel: 234-2627

Piscataquis , Penobscot (East of Rt 2 and South of Rt 188) and Waldo

4. Philip I. Morehouse Route I, Box 87 Windsor, ME 04363 Tel: 549-5188

Lincoln , Kno x, Waldo , Kennebec (East of Kenn. River & Rt 202) and Sagadahoc (East of Bath)

5. Harla nd S. H itchings PO Box 145 Princeton , ME 04668 Tel : 796-2282

Washington, Hancock and Pen obscot (North of Rt 188 and East of Rt 2)

5. George L. Currier 209 Silk Street Brewer , ME 04412 Tel: 989-2477

Piscataquis and Penobscot (South of Rt 188)

6. Harland S. Hitchings 6. Michael G. Sawyer RFD 1 Smyrna Mills, ME 04780 Tel: 757-8102

Aroostook and Medway North in Penobscot Count y

Washington, Hancock and Penobscot (North of Rt 188 and East of Rt 2)

THE NEW PHONE NUMBER FOR BOAT OR SNOWMOBILE REGISTRATION IS 289-2043.

PO Box 145 Princeton, ME 04668 Tel: 796-2282

Counties York

7. Mi chael G. Sawyer RFD I Sm yrna Mills, ME 04780 Tel: 757-8102

Aroostook and Medway North in Penobscot County

8. Charles L. Duggins IO Old South Place Bath, ME 04530 Tel: 443-2601

Survival Techniques Specialist

Fishery Management Fishery Division Lyndon H. Bond, Chief REGION A -Sebago Region

Region A is by far the most populated of the seven fishery regions, with a human population of 489,318. The estimated number of angler days spent on Region A lakes and streams in 1980 was 445,100, averaging 4.1 angler days per lake acre and 21.5 angler days per stream mile. It is little wonder, with all of this fishing pressure, that the average take-home catch of coldwater gamefish in ReMaine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

gion A is somewhat below that of the more northern and eastern regions. In spite of the heavy fishing pressure and the high angler exploitation rate of salmon and trout, fishing in Region A was quite good during the past year. Sebago Lake led the way, especially in the spring and early summer of 1981, with exceptionally high quality salmon and togue fishing. As of this writing, approximately 60 entries for

the "One That Didn't Get Away Club" have been submitted for salmon and togue; the heaviest salmon known was 7 pounds, 12 ounces and the heaviest togue was 18 pounds, 14 ounces-and only 10 years old! Other lakes in Region A which produced fairly good fishing are Moose Pond, Bridgton; Great East Lake, Acton; Mousam Lake and Square Pond, Shapleigh; Hancock and Sand ponds, Denmark; Kezar Lake, Lovell; Auburn Lake, Auburn; Little Sebago Lake, Gray; and Sabbathday Lake, Poland. Good fishing for searun brown trout has been developed 17

in the Ogunquit and Royal rivers estuaries. A brown trout study was started on the Little Ossipee River in Newfield to evaluate our brown trout introduction in this rather good trout stream. A creel census is in progress to determine total angler catch; electro fishing and trapnetting will be conducted to evaluate the standing crop of trout in the study sections. Angler counts by aircraft are being conducted on key lakes in the central and western areas of Region A to determine total angler use. These counts, made in conjunction with partial creel checks by boats, will help us estimate angler harvest of gamefish in Region A lakes. Some excellent largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing is enjoyed throughout Region A. Probably some of the very best bass fishing in the Northeast can be enjoyed in the Region A lakes where bass are well established. A check with the regional headquarters office will tell you where these lakes are located. The three Region A fishery biologists-Stu DeRoche, Sonny Pierce, and Dick Arsenault-are spending a great deal of time on regional lakes in order to evaluate ongoing fishery management programs and update these programs when necessary. We enlist the assistance of anglers to supply us with creel census information, and we attempt to keep anglers well informed of our management needs and the changes that are being planned in order to protect the sports fisheries in Region A. We have had excellent cooperation from individual anglers and from the various fish and game clubs throughout the region. Consequently, most of our management needs have been accepted and approved.

REGION B-Belgrade Region Trawling and SCUBA observations revealed successful lake trout reproduction in four regional waters. These waters will be removed from our annual togue stocking program. An 18-inch minimum length limit has been instituted to help ensure contin18

ued successful lake trout reproduction. The lake trout populations of each of these waters will be observed annually to monitor togue reproductive success. Angler counts from Department aircraft and angler interviews by census clerks were employed to estimate annual fishing effort at 107,000 man-days on combination (coldwater /warmwater) management waters in Region B. Nearly 18,000 salmonids (brook trout, brown trout, salmon, and lake trout) and more than 450,000 warmwater fish (bass, pickerel, and perch) were taken in Region B in 1980. More than 340,000 of the fish creeled were white perch. The search for cheap energy has led to a large number of applications to FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) for small hydro developments on many rivers and streams in Region B. Fishery biologists in the region have found an increasing amount of their time spent on investigation and review of these small hydro projects. REGION C-Grand Lakes }Jegion Fishery biologists censused the following five waters during the 1981 ice fishing season: Walker Pond, Donnell Pond, Molasses Pond, Green Lake, and Beech Hill Pond. The censuses were sufficiently intensive (except for Walker Pond) so that seasonal estimates of pressure and catch could be obtained. Brown trout from the first stocking in 1979 are growing exceedingly well in Walker Pond. A three-pound fish was checked during the winter season, and a number of three-pound browns were caught during the early open water season; all these fish were only three years old. Molasses Pond provided some good salmon angling during the 1981 winter season. One interesting finding from the census is that anglers caught an estimated 105 Age 3 salmon (BVclipped) during the winter. These fish were part of a stocking of 500 in 1979; thus, fishermen have already realized a 21 percent return on this lot of fish, clearly indicating that survival of stocked salmon is currently highly satisfactory in the pond.

Although togue fishing was poor on both Green Lake and Beech Hill Pond, each body of water produced a number of five-to-ten-pound fish. The final stocking of togue in a fiveyear program was carried out at Green Lake in the spring of 1981. Checknetting conducted on Green Lake during the 1980 field season confirmed the fact that stocked togue are continuing to grow well; fiveand-one-half-year-old togue averaged 19. 6 inches in length, which represents an increase of 2.0 inches over their average length recorded a year earlier. Togue which were stocked in Donnell Pond during the same years as Green Lake have displayed a much slower growth rate. Annual checknettings showed that four-and-onehalf-year-old togue averaged 15.9 inches in length in 1979 and 15. 7 inches in length a year later as fiveand-one-half-year-old fish. Thus, at the stage of their lives when they normally grow several inches per year, Donnell Pond togue are exhibiting little or no growth. In 1981, a concerted effort was made to transfer smelt eggs into those waters where smelt populations are depressed. Good salmon fisheries are generally so dependent upon healthy levels of smelt populations that the time and effort required to carry out a substantial number of transfers is considered very worthwhile. A total of 10 waters received transfers of smelt eggs in 1981; most of the transfers were designed to increase levels of smelt abundance (such as at Donnell Pond) to promote increased growth of salmonids . Although the 1981 open water salmon fishery at West Grand Lake was not as good as the previous year, the lake produced a number of togue in

Regional Biologist Denny McNeish collects smelt eggs for transport to a different area where efforts are being made to establish a resident smelt population.

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

the 10- to 20-pound range, including a 19 Yi-pound lunker. After a fair start in April and May, Grand Lake Stream provided some outstanding sport for landlocked salmon in the 16- to 19-inch size class during June and early July. The eight-year experimental brown trout stocking program in the Union River system is now complete. Electrofishing on the East Branch during the 1980 field season captured the first young-of-the-year wild brown trout on that branch. Natural reproduction of stocked brown trout has now been officially verified on all three branches. Growth and survival of brown trout fry stocked in the Middle Branch of the Union River has been encouraging. The evidence collected to date indicates that although there will probably never be much of a fishery for wild brown trout in any of the three branches of the river, some browns will be caught each year to augment the fishery for native brook trout. Furthermore, it is expected that some large brown trout from five to ten pounds will occasionally be caught in some of the lakes which are situated on both the West and East Branches of the Union River.

REGION D-Rangeley Region In addition to routine checks on a number of waters in Region D, four

new lake surveys were completed and published. Several special projects were undertaken, including a season-long creel census of Mooselookmeguntic Lake using a combination of aerial counts and ground clerk censuses of anglers. Results of the study will help to evaluate and formulate a management plan for this intensively used water. Creel census and fall netting at Quimby Pond continued to provide information on the populations and the fisheries there. Investigation of proposed environmental alterations made up a significant amount of our summer work. Spruce budworm salvage cuts, gold mining, and hydroelectric dam proposals were most common. During the winter months, considerable time was spent on updating the lake inventory file and the species management plans. Winter creel checks continued on Embden, Porter, Clearwater, and Wesserunsett Lakes.

REGION E-Moosehead Region The last count of anglers used to estimate total angler trips spent on Moosehead Lake was made during the winter of 1980. No estimates were made for the summer of 1980 or the winter of 1981, and we have not planned to renew the counts until 1984 or 1985. However, we are censusing winter anglers to determine mean

catch of salmon, lake trout, and brook trout per angler day. By employing the average number of angler days estimated for the past three winters (9,269), we can compare total harvests of the three species by assuming that winter angler effort has not changed appreciably. Sticklebacks, which were formerly abundant in Moosehead Lake and then disappeared for a number of years, are now returning in numbers sufficient to be seen in small groups along the shores. Lake whitefish, which we presumed to be extinct for a number of years, are also present. We know of at least three averaging two to three pounds that were caught by anglers during the past two years. These could be fish dropping down from First Roach Pond, and it is encouraging, since we were planning to transfer some lake whitefish to Moosehead Lake as soon as we located a source nearby. The average size of lake trout has increased substantially during the past two years. Several lake trout weighing more than 15 pounds were caught this past year. Also, several brook trout over five pounds, one of them weighing seven pounds, 10 ounces, were caught. Some four- and five-pound salmon are also caught by anglers. The Allagash Lake winter fishery (reduced to the month of February only) was censused every weekend and on some weekdays to estimate the catch of the very important lake trout and also the population of large brook trout. We estimate that 308 ( Âą 50) angler days of fishing resulted in estimated harvests of 97 lake trout weighing 358 pounds, 122 brook trout weighing 155 pounds, plus 183 pounds of cusk and 17 pounds of whitefish. We are pleased that the fishing pressure and harvest were down considerably from that of the winter of 1980, when 521 angler days resulted in estimated catches of 231 lake trout weighing more than 1,000 pounds and 182 brook trout weighing 233 pounds. Numerous returns of tags from lake trout tagged during the egg-taking operation of 1979 will aid in the evaluation of the Allagash 19

Lake togue population and fishery. The average sizes of both lake trout and brook trout were slightly lower than those in the 1980 winter fishery. Weather and winter road conditions largely determine the number of anglers fishing this remote lake during the winter. The experimental management of Parlin Pond in an attempt to return it to its former status as excellent brook trout water by stocking large (fall yearling) brook trout has not been very successful where hatchery brook trout are concerned. These trout do not seem to adapt to the competition and soon disappear without preying heavily on the rough fish species. During the three-year closure period, however, young wild trout are thriving-at least three year classes of these are now present in fair numbers and young wild trout as small as eight inches long are feeding upon the rough fish. Parlin Pond, 540 acres in area, will be re-opened to fishing in 1982 with a very low bag limit and a high length limit on brook trout. We feel that by maintaining a high population of large brook trout that can prey upon the abundant minnows, small perch, and young suckers, we can eventually reduce these rough fish populations and then maintain them at their former low levels. During the past year, a large amount of time was spent analyzing the 12 years of Moosehead Lake study data and writing the final report. Much time was also spent working on regional assessments for the five-year update of the species plan. A few new lake surveys and some re-surveys were completed and published. REGION F-Penobscot Region Lake evaluations for determining best management of the fishery resource on individual lakes and ponds in the region were conducted during the field season . Routine management procedures are used to obtain biological information, and analysis of this data indicates what steps may need to be taken to maintain a quality fishery. 20

During the 1980 moose season, regional fishery biologists assisted the Wildlife Division in gathering data on moose. In December of 1980, Regional Fishery Biologist Steve Timpano was promoted to the position of environmental coordinator and assigned to the Augusta headquarters. Mike Smith, former assistant regional biologist, was promoted to regional biologist in Region F, and John Boland, former fish hatchery worker at Dry Mills, was promoted to assistant regional biologist. The intensive creel census on Cold Stream Pond was phased out after the winter 1981 census. Cold Stream had been censused during open water seasons since 197 5 and during ice fishing since its first ice opening in 1980. Information from the census resulted in many management changes on the lake. Information will still be obtained through voluntary angler censuses. After phasing out Cold Stream, a new study was started on East Grand Lake. Two census clerks were stationed on the lake for the open water season and trapnetting will be conducted this fall . Johnston Pond (TAR 10) was selected for an experimental project to establish a spawning population of Sunapee trout. Instead of stocking fish, Sunapee eggs were placed in the pond on a suitable spawning area. Hopefully, the fish hatched from these eggs will return to this location when they are ready to spawn. REGION G-Fish River Lakes Region Fishery division personnel in Region G were busy with a wide variety of activities in 1980. Fish populations were sampled in several lakes to obtain age and growth information, evaluate the success of various stockings, and check for introductions of new species. The college work-study program once again provided valuable student assistance, enabling us to conduct a winter creel census on Long Lake in the Fish River Chain. A similar creel census scheduled for the open water season on Long Lake had

to be cancelled. The two biologists continued their winter aircraft flights to monitor angler pressure and success rates on major lakes of the Allagash River drainage. Prospects of a copper mining site west of Ashland have resulted in considerable time spent at various informational meetings of mining representatives and other state agency personnel. Department biologists have been cooperating with private biological consultants in collecting background fishery data from watersheds that may be impacted by waste discharge. Regional personnel were permitted to visit a mining operation in Bathurst, New Brunswick to become acquainted with mining processes and environmental problems that have been encountered. Regional biologists maintained liaison with other state and provincial fishery professionals by attending American Fisheries Society-sponsored workshops in Cazenovia, New York and at Sebago Lake. At the latter workshop Regional Biologist Peter Bourque was awarded the past president's certificate as outgoing president of the Atlantic International, AFS. Bourque was also granted time to attend a Dingell-Johnson fund expansion rally held in Washington, D.C. There was an attempt by AFS members to gather congressional support for a legislative bill that would provide additional federal revenue to state fish and wildlife departments for fishery management programs. The usual amount of time was spent on routine fish stockings, environmental investigations, and public hearings concerning proposed fishing regulations. A highlight of the 1980 season involved assisting the Wildlife Division in gathering biological data on moose killed during the one-week season in September. FISHERY RESEARCH UNIT The Fishery Research Unit at Bangor is responsible for developing management principles that can be directly applied to improve . sport fisheries statewide. Research is deMaine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

signed to assist in fulfilling goals and objectives developed for strategic and operational plans for the major freshwater sportfisheries. The unit was active in revising and updating these plans for the next planning period (1981-1985) including fishery assessments and job descriptions. Close liaison was continued with the Maine Cooperative Fishery Unit and other researchers on monitoring aquatic populations in areas treated for spruce budworm, and with the Great Northern Paper Company in the cooperative salmon study on the West Branch of the Penobscot River. Specific research studies in operation are summarized below. Keith Havey, Dave Locke, and Les Smith continued their work on the brook trout selective breeding project. The new phase of this project, centered at the Monroe ponds in Washington County, yielded excellent data concerning relative growth and survival of progeny of selectively bred and standard brook stock at minimum cost. Hybrids of the cross between our standard Phillips brood stock and ÂˇÂˇ the wild Assinica strain grew well at Eagle Lake at Bar Harbor and showed a better-than-average survival. In fall, 1981, hybrids between the so-called Tomah stock and the Assinica strain will be generated and subsequently tested for growth and longevity at Eagle Lake and the Monroe ponds. Havey and Smith are continuing to evaluate the effect of the 16-inch limit imposed on salmon at Eagle Lake (Bar Harbor) in 1978. Indications are that it may take a salmon fishery years to become reestablished after a change from a 14-inch to 16-inch size limit, and the change may require some very tricky secondary management techniques during the transition period. In 1977, a small experiment was started at Eagle Lake (Bar Harbor) to evaluate the effect of light stockings of larger-than-average togue. To date, more than 20 percent of the togue planted in this 1977 stocking have been recovered by fishermenthose recovered have averaged 21. 7 Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

inches long and four pounds in weight. For largely unknown reasons, a similar stocking in 1978 is yielding poorer recoveries, but growth is still fast. A strictly scientific paper by Keith Havey involving stocking density growth rate, and survival of salmon at Long Pond on Mount Desert Island was published by the American Fisheries Society in an issue of its transactions. The research data showed that stocking rates of more than one salmon or so per acre resulted in poor growth and poor recoveries to the fishermen. Ken Warner and Keith Havey revised and updated the Department's long-term statewide salmon management plan using data and assessments provided by regional biologists. Warner and Havey also continued with the tedious task of updating their bulletin, ''The Landlocked Salmon (Salmo salar)-Its Life History and Management in Maine," which is currently out of print. Fred Kircheis and Mike Smith stocked Sunapee charr eggs into Johnston Pond (TAR 10) in the winter of 1980-81. SCUBA observations by Kircheis in May of 1981 confirmed that many of the eggs of this uncommon fish had hatched, providing hope that a new population may become established. Kircheis has documented natural reproduction of Sunapee charr in the South Branch ponds. This area in Baxter Park has been a

part of the Sunapee range expansion program since 1971. Stocking of these waters has been discontinued in anticipation that the natural reproduction will continue to sustain this new population. Fred Kircheis, Rick Jordan, and Dennis McNeish made under-ice observations on a newly discovered lake trout (togue) spawning site in Swan Lake (Swanville). This site is significant in that Swan Lake has been receiving hatchery stockings of lake trout, which cost the Department approximately 60 cents each. If natural reproduction is able to provide the necessary recruitment to produce quality angling the Department can discontinue stocking and use the hatchery fish elsewhere. BROOK TROUT STUDIES Stocking evaluations continue on a strain of hybrid brook trout which are being compared to standard hatchery stock. Preliminary findings show that hybrid trout growth is slightly better than that of standard strains and that they may survive some~hat longer. Angler use of remote trout ponds which have been protectively zoned by the Land Use Regulation Commission was measured in 1980. A significant increase in use was noted on most waters when compared with 1979. However, 1979 was probably an abnormally low year for angler use on these distant ponds due to gasoline shortages.

Hatchery Operations David 0. Locke, Supt. of Hatcheries The Casco Fish Hatchery is back in full production after being closed down for the installation of ultraviolet light (UV) treatment equipment in the water supply line. There is no evidence of furunculosis, the bacterial fish disease that has plagued several Maine fish hatcheries, or of any other serious fish disease at Casco since this equipment has been in operation. The first crop of salmon reared at Casco

since the UV system went online was stocked in the spring of 1981. These spring yearling salmon are the largest ever stocked from this hatchery, with some plantings averaging more than eight inches in length. The Warden Service has been actively enforcing Maine's ban on the importation of live baitfish, Âˇ with three smugglers being apprehended in one two-week period during Febru21

ary of 1981. The Hatchery Division hastily set up some temporary tanks to hold this contraband bait alive until court action could be taken. There were, in these three confiscations, about 140,000 golden shiners and several green sunfish, a species of fish not native to Maine. We also found two fish parasites in the golden shiners, one a small nematode worm and the other a tiny protozoan that affects the ovaries of female golden shiners. Neither was known to occur in Maine. A flourescent antibody technique microscope, a new acquisition to the Hatchery Division laboratory, makes the detection of bacterial fish diseases much easier, faster, and more sensitive. This new tool makes it possible to detect extremely small numbers of pathogenic bacteria which are impossible to find using other methods. Hatchery Biologist Peter Walker attended the Fifth Annual Atlantic Region Fish Health Workshop at Halifax, Nova Scotia last fall. This meeting gave Pete the opportunity to meet his Canadian colleagues, learn some of the latest fish disease diagnostic techniques and discuss mutual fish health problems. Pete has been evaluating "popeye" problems with spring yearling Allagash strain lake trout at the Dry Mills Hatchery. These eye problems develop in the togue after they have been fin clipped prior to stocking. It appears that the handling stress and the wounds produced by the removal of fins cause a greater uptake of water than the fishes' kidneys can handle, causing a buildup of body fluids and the popyeye condition. This seems to appear only in the Allagash strain of togue, and only at the Dry Mills Hatchery where we have very soft water.

A decision was made during the spring of 1980 to close the Deblois Fish Hatchery because of the Department's financial difficulties. The phase-down began during the summer and the last fish were stocked out by November. All of the equipment and moveable items were transferred to other hatcheries. The Deblois Hatchery has been leased to William R. Randall of Winthrop and David C. Tobey of Grand Lake Stream, who plan to use these facilities to store eels and bait fish. Vandali$m problems at the Governor Hill Fish Hatchery have made it necessary to enclose the brood stock pool with chain link fencing to keep people from stealing these valuable fish. Security lights have recently been installed at the Grand Lake Stream Hatchery to hopefully reduce similar problems there. Care has to be taken in the location of these lights so that they will not interfere with the normal day/ night cycle that affects the sexual maturity of brood stock while still providing the illumination necessary to deter vandals. Many personnel changes occurred during the year. Lawrence Burton was promoted to hatchery manager

of the Palermo Rearing Station. He was replaced as assistant foreman at the Enfield Hatchery by the promotion and transfer of Dean Varney from Deblois. Ed Nadeau, veteran manager of the Casco Hatchery, retired after more than 34 years employment with the Department. Bruce Winslow was promoted from assistant manager to manager at Casco. Steve Wilson, also of Casco, was promoted to the assistant's position. Jim Lucas, a graduate of Unity College, was hired to fill the position vacated by Steve. John Boland has transferred from his position as a fish hatchery worker at Dry Mills to assistant regional fishery biologist at Enfield. Carlton Bryant transferred from Phillips to the opening at Dry Mills, and Jerry Grant moved from Deblois to the Phillips vacancy. The following fish were stocked during 1980:

Landlocked salmon Brown trout Lake trout Brook trout Sunapee trout

Number 322,018 280,368 215, 115 989,587 10,606 1,817,694

Pounds 35,003 48,676 15 ,720 61,564 405 161,368

Working in the covered pools at the Grand Lake Stream Hatchery are Thane L. Clifford, foreman, (left) and Frank A. Bagley (right). They are in the process of containing fish into a smaller area to work on them.

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

Planning and Co-ordination Division Kenneth H. Anderson, Director Our name, formerly Planning and Coordination, has been changed to Program Development and Coordination to more clearly reflect the function of the Division, which is to coordinate and assist in the development of all Department operational and administrative programs, to provide staff assistance to the Commissioner, and to provide interagency coordination in matters affecting fish and wildlife resources. Fisheries management plans for the period 1980-1985 were completed with the support and guidance of a Citizens' Steering Committee and the Commissioner's Advisory Council. The selected program has been submitted to the Federal Aid Office of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and to the State Planning Office for A-95 review by interested agencies and private groups. The Division worked with the Special Deer Task Force, a citizens' group sponsored by the Sportsman's Alliance of Maine to evaluate the factors affecting Maine's deer resource and help develop recommendations for future deer management. Assistance was provided to the Commissioner in planning and coordinating the 1980 experimental moose season; our staff is currently coordinating the formulation of plans for the administration of another moose hunt in 1982. Assistance was given to the implementation of fisheries and wildlife management programs, data processing and data summarization of deer, bear, and moose registrations, waterfowl banding records, fur tagging, hunter and trapper questionnaire, beaver management, creel census data, and warden complaint records; the data processing section also maintained biological and warden work reports and cost accounting records. The impact of exotic wildlife imports on native wildlife was reassessed under the Wildlife Importation Law, Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

and a new approved list of species was prepared. Work continued in the development of a computer-simulated deer population model which would allow us to evaluate different deer management strategies, and to project the impact of different strategies on deer in Maine. Major participation continued in the State LANDSAT demonstration project to use satellite images to evaluate wildlife habitat. A computerized analysis of the warden angler count and a project to determine amount of warden coverage needed seasonally in each part of the state were completed. The Division has initiated a preliminary evaluation of the Department's registration and licensing systems, and will be coordinating the development of an automated system for selected licenses issued from the Augusta office. We have initiated a long-range plan to provide a single research facility in the Bangor-Orono area to accommodate our various fisheries and wildlife research and operational needs in that area. The Gray Game Farm is undergoing several changes, and planning personnel are active in developing an expanded education and public rela-

tions program on the grounds owned by the Department. Administration of the Stream Alteration Act and coordination of technical input to other environmental laws continued. More than 150 Stream Alteration applications were processed and about 1200 DEP Site Location, Great Pond, Wetlands, and LURC applications were reviewed. In addition, greater input is being provided to issues relating to hydropower development, surface mining, and other environmental issues which affect fish and wildlife habitat. Division personnel provided technical input to the State Planning Office-Land and Water Resources Council, Subcommittees on Hydropower and Peatland Development, the State Energy Plan, and the Superior Mining Coordination Committee. Other activities in which this Division contributed included the Merrymeeting Bay Committee, North Maine Woods, West Branch Corridor, and Dickey-Lincoln Dam Mitigation Studies. Routine assistance was provided to other divisions in carrying out species management plans and providing data processing for license, registration and questionnaire data.

Wildlife Division Robert W. Boettger, Chief The past year was a busy one for Wildlife Division personnel, being the initial year of operation under the first five-year update of the longrange comprehensive wildlife plan. Goals and objectives for the management of the various wildlife species were reviewed and, if necessary, revised in accordance with information obtained as a result of studies conducted during the first segment, and social and economic changes that occurred during this period. A good example of this is the State Game Farm

in Dry Mills, where the major program emphasis is being changed from raising pheasants to creation of a visitors' center and public education facility. Due to tight economic conditions and inflationary pressures, a fee is now being charged for public admission to the Dry Mills facility. The first moose hunting season in Maine in 45 years became a reality during September. The Department gained considerable prestige in the eyes of the public for the manner in which this season was planned and 23

Members of the SAM Task Force on Deer and representatives of this Department on a tour of the Kamankeag Deer Wintering area along the Kennebago River, cooperatively managed by the Department and the Seven Islands Land Co. This deer yard has been managed cooperatively for many years. However, the spruce budworm has defoliated many of the shelter portions of the yard.

conducted. Wildlife Division personnel received a share of this praise for their efficient planning for, and collection of, biological information. Due in a large part to the fact that this initial moose season was well run, the legislature has passed a bill allowing for annual strictly regulated moose hunting seasons commencing in 1982. The information collected during the 1980 season and subsequent ~easons will provide for better future management of this important resource. In recent years, it has become apparent that the interest in hunting and annual harvest of black bears was constantly increasing. Projections during the 1980 season indicated that approximately twice as many of these animals would be harvested than the allowable 800 to 1200. Close monitoring of the bear registration figures made it necessary to terminate the season early, on September 13, in order to stay within allowable limits. The accuracy of this prediction was upheld by final registration figures which showed that the total for this abridged season was 1058. This early closure was not universally popular. This, together with legal complications involved in setting the 1981 season, led to a great deal of legislative action concerning bear hunting and management. Division personnel spent considerable time testifying before the legislature on this subject and on proposals concerning the management of deer, moose, coyotes, other furbearers, revised licensing systems, funding, and budgets. It was an active session as far as wildlife was concerned. 24

During most of the controversy over bear seasons and management, the Division was without a bear study leader. Fortunately, other Division personnel and the former study leader were able to fill in on an emergency basis. I am happy to report that we now have a very well qualified bear study leader in the person of George Matula, who brings to the position a solid formal training background and practical field experience in black bear research and management. Another staff vacancy, created by the retirement of Biologist Francis Dunn, had been filled by an in-house transfer of Kevin Stevens to Dunn's position in Enfield. This resulted in the promotion of Biology Aide G. Mark Stadler to Steven's former position in Ashland, the in-house transfer of Assistant Regional Biologist William Noble from Ashland to Greenville, and the promotion of former project employee Arlen Lovewell to Assistant Regional Biologist in Ashland. As part of the settlement of the Maine Indian Land Claims case, it was stipulated that the Department (Wildlife Division personnel) would deal directly with tribal representatives on matters concerning wildlife management. This procedure was initiated by contacting both the Penobscot Nation and Passamaquoddy Tribe requesting a meeting and forwarding information on Department

laws and recent rule-making activities to them. Positive replies were received from both the Penobscots and Passamaquoddies and a very informative initial meeting has been held with members of the Penobscot Nation. No doubt additional meetings will take place and a closer liaison established as the Indians complete and consolidate their holdings. Some disturbing occurrences have also been noted during the past year. One is an increase in activities of the anti-hunting, anti-trapping organizations, both nationwide and in Maine. On a national scale, this has resulted in a federal appeals court decision that will make it more difficult to justify the export of bobcat pelts from the states (including Maine) that now have clearance from the federal government for such export. Wildlife Division furbearer project personnel are now working hard to maintain Maine's export status. On a more local note, there has been some activity noted to polarize opposition to the recently enacted moose season. The wildlife protection zone status of one deer wintering area was recently removed by the Land Use Regulation Commission (LURC) upon appeal by the landowner, who claimed economic hardship. Wildlife Division personnel testified against removal since economic hardship is not included in the LURC standards. Division personnel are very conMaine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

cerned about this decision and will be meeting with LURC officials to make certain that this one instance does not set a precedent. Commissioner Manuel has instructed that the Canada goose transplant program be reactivated. A few years ago, this project was successful in establishing a breeding population of Canada geese in Maine, and it has been decided to try to increase the numbers of these breeding birds. Canada geese (270 of them!) that were causing a nuisance in the more densely populated southern New England states and New York have been captured and transplanted to remote sites inÂˇ northern Maine, where it is hoped they will establish local populations, as have their predecessors. Migratory bird project personnel have had their request for a waterfowl hunting zone change option approved by the technical section of the Atlantic Flyway Council. The next step will be to obtain approval from the Atlantic Flyway Council at their scheduled meeting in late July. The marine bird and seal census and habitat survey has been completed for Casco Bay. Additional outside funding is now available from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to continue this important work in the mid-coast area. Our population of wild turkeys, which originated from transplanted wild Vermont stock, is steadily increasing in southern Maine and it should be possible to transplant some of these birds to other potentially suitable sites in Maine this winter. During the past year, the Wildlife Division has continued to seek out and utilize legitimate outside monies to fund additional important research and management projects such as the aforementioned marine bird studies and individual jobs under the furbearer and bear studies. We are also striving for more efficient opÂˇerations via tight budgeting and periodic review of plans and accomplishments, in order that limited available funds be utilized to produce the most benefits for Maine's wildlife resources and those who enjoy them. Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

Warden Service John F. Marsh, Chief Warden This past year involved many changes in Warden Service and personnel and probably will be the only year ever to see three different )Vardens serve as chief warden. This was brought about by the retirement of Alanson B. Noble in October of 1980, followed by the retirement of Russell Dyer in June of 1981 (Dyer had replaced Noble). Dyer was replaced by the author of this report, John F. Marsh. Other promotions and retirements include: Sgt. Norman E. Trask, promoted to lieutenant and assigned to the Planning Division in October 1980; Sergeant William J. Vail, promoted to lieutenant and assigned to Division A; Sergeant John G. Crabtree, promoted to lieutenant and assigned to Division B; and Lieutenant Charles A. Merrill, promoted to major and assigned to Augusta headquarters. Also, Warden Francis E. Reynolds was promoted to sergeant and assigned to northern Aroostook County. Also retired during the fiscal year were Sergeant Russell Cook, Bucksport; Warden K. Bryce Clayton, Eustis; and Warden David H. Spencer, Norway. These retirements, promotions, and transfers left the Warden Service with 11 vacancies, only three of which were filled. John T. Whalen was assigned to Fort Kent, Timothy C. Liscomb was assigned to the Whiting area, and Neal C. Wykes was assigned to Columbia Falls. It is anticipated that eight wardens will be hired in time for a warden school to be held at the University of Maine at Orono during the spring of 1982. Probably the enforcement highlight of the past year was the 1980 moose season which was held the week of Sept. 22 through Sept. 27. Although considerable effort was put forth both before and after this season, resulting in many special assignments and warden foot miles, the season itself was relatively free of viola-

tions. In fact, more unlawful moose apprehensions were made south of the legal moose hunting zone than in the zone itself. It was obvious that some of the poachers thought all the wardens were assigned to the ''moose zone." The remainder of the hunting season was as routine as any hunting season can be, with wardens apprehending 133 night hunters. Special emphasis was put into enforcing Maine's various trapping laws, resulting in a cross section of violations across the state. The cold but open winter provided little in the way of the domestic dog problems which usually plague wardens, so emphasis was put into enforcing other commonly violated statutes. Warden Service's covert efforts, which are aimed at various violations involving commercialization of fish and wildlife resources, resulted in many serious apprehensions which would not have been possible without this small, specialized operation. During the summer of 1980, for instance, information was developed on a subject who was transporting unlawfully obtained wildlife interstate at considerable personal gain. In September of that year, the covert division, with the assistance of federal agents, tracked this subject from Madison, Maine to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Both seller and buyer were subsequently prosecuted for numerous violations of federal fish and wildlife laws. In December of 1980, this division completed a three-year investigation of unlawful commercialization of deer in Maine's mid-coast area, resulting in 21 prosecutions involving various statutes which protect Maine's deer from poachers. The covert division also put in many hours during the winter months combating the unlawful importation of live fish commonly used for bait. 25

Their efforts brought about the arrests of six persons involved in illegal baitfish transactions representing 140,000 baitfish valued at $17,500. The division, in connection with these cases, also seized specialized equipment and vehicles valued at $50,000. The coming of spring brought some of the best fishing remembered in recent years, and with it came many "over-the-limit" violations statewide. Two road checks during the Memorial Day weekend resulted in nearly 100 fishing violations and a number of citations for loaded firearms in motor vehicles. The remains of many freshly killed moose were located by wardens in the north country this spring-moose poaching continues to be a problem statewide almost year round. Also during the spring, District Warden Lloyd A . Perk1ns of the Augusta district was named 1981 Warden of the Year by a committee comprised of Warden Service personnel, other Fish and Wildlife personnel, and representatives of the sporting public. Chief Warden John F. Marsh, Perkins' supervisor for the past several years, cited the warden's "very commendable job in an historically busy district." He said Perkins handles upwards of 200 complaints annually in the politically sensitive Augusta area, and has a high percentage of prosecutions. Perkins was commended for his excellent relationship with other law enforcement agencies. Another of his supervisors, Lt. Norman Trask, stated: "Lloyd Perkins is as dedicated as any warden I have ever worked with or supervised. He often sacrifices scheduled time off in the interest of fish and wildlife conservation." Perkins' first assignment was a wilderness district at Seboomook, north of Moosehead Lake, following which he was assigned to the Augusta district, where he has been since 1972. Past Warden Service annual reports have enumerated the purchases of capital equipment, but during the past year the Warden Service has bought little in the way of capital equipment and has, in fact, 26

sold $70,000 worth of helicopters and helicopter parts, leaving a fleet of four Super Cubs, 1 Cessna 185, and one Beaver. One of the Super Cubs and the Dehavilland Beaver are, in fact, government surplus. The Super Cub is used as a backup for the ones assigned to the three warden pilots, and the Beaver is used largely to stock fish and transport divers for recovery efforts in remote areas. In keeping with cost cuts, the Warden Service aircraft hanger at Greenville has been closed and Warden Service is contracting mechanical work out to various air service facilities across the state. This is an experimental move, and all costs will be reviewed at the end of one year.

Maine's warden pilots continue to have excellent flying records and were responsible for locating numerous lost persons under adverse conditions last year. All Warden Service aircraft are now equipped for night flying, and are being utilized more and more for nighttime enforcement activities. Fiscal 1981-1982 promises to be very interesting, with many new training sessions planned to better prepare Maine wardens to perform the difficult tasks to which they are assigned. These, combined with the anticipated hiring of new personnel and the purchasing of new equipment, should make an interesting report next year and more effective enforcement overall.

Warden Parker Tripp spent considerable time this year in designing a grid system to be used in conjunction with topographic maps. The new system, to be utilized by all divisions of the department, will greatly ease the task of pinpointing a location on the ground .

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

Support Services (Editor's note: The heading "Support Services" includes several activities. These are the four divisions reporting below, plus the operations of the Department storehouse, regional headquarters, land acquisition program, and repellents.)

Public Information Division W. Thomas Schoener, Director The Public Information Division officially came into being July 1, 1980, the result of Commissioner Manuel's reorganization of the former Information and Education Division into two separate divisions, Regulations and Public Information. The Public Information staff of two writers, one photographer, and two clerks assumed all of the ongoing I & E programs except its close involvement with the department's rulemaking and law book production functions, which became the responsibility of the Regulations Division. Not only were ongoing programs maintained, but moves were made toward an expanded public information program. Doing this with a small staff and while implementing reorganization made for an interesting year. Each division member was called upon to work, at least temporarily, in jobs not normally his or hers. That it was all accomplished with only the most minor of problems is testimony to the effort all put forth. Broadly categorized, the following are the Public Information Division's programs and their status during Fiscal Year 1980-81: Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine.

Production and circulation of the department's quarterly magazine were the most time-consuming functions of the Public Information Division. Everyone in the division has a hand in magazine work, although none on a full-time basis. Staff changes brought about by the reorganization and longtime editor Bill Mincher's departure for the Regulations Division were: Tom Shoener, managing editor since 1964, became editor; Tom ChamberMaine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

lain, features editor since 1973, became managing editor; and Pat Hogan, circulation clerk since 1972, retained that role and also began working as an editorial assistant. Paid circulation of the magazine remained at about the 10,000 level, despite an increase in subscription fees necessitated by higher printing and postage costs. Preliminary planning was begun during the year toward improving the magazine's content, production, promotion, and circulation system-the goal being a better product with an increased number of subscribers but requiring no increase in the staff. Photographic services. In addition to fulfilling photographic needs of MAINE

FISH

AND

WILDLIFE

magazine and for other public information uses, Division Photographer Tom Carbone spent considerable time on photo assignments for other divisions, especially evidence photography for the Warden Service. Until last year, the department had two photographers, but when Bill Cross retired and was not replaced, Tom was called upon to fill the void. Fortunately, several other division members have photographic skills and can help out in this area when needed. Information Services. The division annually receives thousands of mailed and phoned requests for information on fish and wildlife, hunting and fishing, and a great variety of other subjects. Norma Layne answers many of these requests with publications from the division's reprint library. Others are answered by phone or letter, a responsibility shared by all division staff members.

News program. An area where a distinct improvement was made during the year was in the division's ability to gain news media exposure for departmental activities. Due to other required staff commitments, the amount of time that could be spent on news dissemination had previously been very limited, but Commissioner Manuel authorized the hiring of a person who could work full-time on the news program, and in November Paul Fournier of Hallowell joined the staff as media coordinator. Another objective of the expanded news effort was to achieve better balance in our use of the various print and broadcast media; previously, very little use was made of radio and television. Paul's abilities in news and feature writing and radio and television production have resulted in greater exposure to the public of the interesting and important work the Fish and Wildlife Department is doing. Exhibits and displays. Another area of expanded activity in the Public Information Division has been aimed at increasing direct personal contact between department personnel and the public. In recent years the department's only significant, staffed display has been the permanent one at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. While that is a good one for its intended purpose, the department lacked a portable display and was not represented at sportsmens' shows and other events in Maine. A major step toward reestablishing this kind of public contact was made last winter with the construction of a portable, log cabin style booth which made its first appearances at shows this spring at Presque Isle, Bangor, and Augusta. The display was designed and built by Game Warden John Caron, assisted by Tom Carbone from the Public Information staff; thus, the only extra cost to the department was for materials. In its appearances thus far, the booth has been staffed by public information personnel, game wardens, fishery and wildlife biologists, and volunteers from other divisions. Plans for 1981-82 are for the display

to make six to eight appearances in Maine and at least one out of state for promotional purposes. The department's permanent dispay at the Eastern States Exposition was the scene of much activity for 12 days last September. Total attendance at the Exposition was 1.1 million people, a new record. Tom Carbone, in addition to being the department photographer, has been in charge of the Eastern States display since the mid-1960s and this year took on the added responsibility of supervision of the portable display. Tom was honored in 1980 by being elected to serve on the Eastern States Exposition's Board of Trustees.

gram has yet to be planned and funded. Nevertheless, the Public Information Division has made some initiatives into this area, the most notable being the restoration of the old tradition of presenting the year's first Atlantic salmon caught by a fisherman to the President of the United States. National press attention was focused on Maine in May when Vice President George Bush, filling in for the President, accepted a Penobscot River salmon from Governor Joseph E. Brennan. Restoration of this tradi-

tion, inactive since the 1950s, was the idea of Paul Fournier, who coordinated this year's presentation with the help of Don Larrabee of the State of Maine office in Washington , D.C. Also, during the past year, the Public Information Division handled the revision and reprinting of THE MAINE WAY cookbook of fish and game recipes. The division also handles retail sales of the book for the department. In three years, more than 12,000 copies of the cookbook have been sold.

Regional Wildlife Biologist Philip Bozenhard chats about Maine's fish and Âˇwildlife with a miniÂˇvisitor to the 1980 Eastern States Exposition in Springfield, Mass. The Public Information Division is responsible for the Department's booth in the Maine building there.

Other Activities. During the year, the Public Information Division was involved with several other noteworthy activities, including the 1980 moose hunting season. A great deal of planning went into all aspects of the moose season, and the author represented public affairs interests in that planning. News media interest before, during, and after the season was extraordinarily heavy and timeconsuming, but it was recognized that good press relations were very important because the attitudes the public formed about the hunt would depend heavily on news accounts. The division also put a great deal of effort into preparation of materials that were mailed to the moose season participants before and after the season. The best measure of the success of these efforts may be in the fact that a bill providing for future moose seasons was overwhelmingly passed by the 110th Legislature. Although the department was recently authorized by the legislature to engage in promotion of hunting and fishing in Maine, a promotional pro-

Regulations Division William C. Mincher, Director

This is a new division, created by Commissioner Manuel in 1980 and first operating under its own activity classification on July 1 of that year. The first year required the formulation of a biennial budget for the division, as well as an annual budget for each of the fiscal years 1980-1981 and 1981-1982. Computer programming within the division enables the formulation and printing of an annual budget in about two minutes, after preparatory work of an hour or so. This

compares to two or more days of work done with paper and pencil and a simple calculator. A copy of the budget program has been made available to the Public Information Division. One objective of the Regulations Division is the simplification of the regulations summaries published for use by the public. The intent is to make the booklets or folders easier to use and understand and, where possible, to reduce printing costs. Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

A complete rev1s1on of copy for these publications is time-consuming, and only one publication was remodeled during the fiscal year just ended. The Hunting Regulations Summary was reduced from 36 to 24 pages, thereby saving on printing and distribution costs. Also, the revision of the text resulted in removing some technical legal language from the booklet while making requirements and restrictions easier to understand.

eries; Lt. Norman Trask, Warden Planning Officer; and Lee Perry, Assistant Chief of the Wildlife Division. The Committee's work speeded up the rule-making process and resulted in increased clarity of the often complex rule proposals which have been advertised for the public. Much other helpful co-operation has been forthcoming from numerous

colleagues in this and other state agencies, not only during the past year but throughout my 23 years of state service. As this will be my last annual report-I will be retired by the time this issue of the magazine is published-I'll take this opportunity to say thank you to my fellow employees, for their company and assistance during these years.

The Regulations Division is responsible for the preparation and production of the law pamphlets for this Department. In this photo, Director, William C. Mincher prepares and checks a map that will be included in the hunting regulations booklet. This is one of the many tasks which must be performed before the booklet can be printed and made available to the public.

I appreciate very much the cooperation of Warden Lieutenant Charles Merrill (now Deputy Chief Warden) in this revision of the booklet. We put in a lot of hours on the selection of language for the new format, and his knowledge of the law was invaluable in minimizing errors in the new wording. Six publications were produced during the fiscal year: Open Water Fishing, Ice Fishing, Hunting, Guiding /Trapping, Migratory Bird Hunting, and Atlantic Salmon Fishing. By June 30, 1981, upcoming issues of the first five had been requisitioned. The Administrative Procedure Act, (A.P .A.) which governs the legal advertising and other aspects of rulemaking, is intended to assure the public of participation in rule-making in the proper and legal manner. Monitoring the language of proposals and advertisements produced by other divisions is another responsibility of the Regulations Division. A Technical Review Committee reviews each proposal prepared for advertising-recommending the best language for clarity and for compliance with the A.P .A. Serving with me on this committee during the past year have been Robert Foye, Assistant Chief of Fish-

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

Realty Division Henry R. Sleeper, Chief During the past year, the Realty Division has continued to maintain the acquisition program as established by the Acquisition Fund. At present, about 18,350 acres have been acquired. The land consists of woodland acreage, wetlands and seabird nesting islands. During the year, 775 acres were added to the following Wildlife Management Areas: Penobscot-Piscataquis WMA in Garland; Manuel WMA in Linneus; Steep Falls WMA in Standish and Baldwin; Earle Kelley WMA in Alna; AugustaWindsor WMA in Windsor; and the Scarboro WMA. Several generous gifts of land were received during the past year: 70 acres in Phippsburg, the gift of the James L. Morse heirs; 47 acres in Belgrade,

the gift of John P. and Annabel Gawler; Shabby Island in Deer Isle, the gift of Austin Goodyear; marshland in Scarboro, the gift of Laurene Webber; Dignard Island in Wilson Pond, Wayne, the gift of Graham L. Tappan; Inner Ram Island at Beals Island, the gift of Benjamin and Belle Bronfeld. The division's activities have increased in recent years in the management of property rights and responsi~ bilities as a result of the Department's increased use and ownership of lands and improvements, and the more intensive uses of adjoining private owners. Property line surveys, title research, cost and value estimates are important parts of present and future acquisition activities. 29

Two former hatchery sites have been leased to private dealers for bait storage, and a garage has been leased in the Augusta area for vehicle servicing and major repairs. A cooperative agreement has been made with the Bureau of Corrections for the harvesting of firewood from the Penobscot-Piscataquis WMA, due to the conversion of oil to wood as fuel for the heating plant at the former Charleston Air Force facility. As was mentioned in the prior issue, Richard B. Parks, our Division Chief, retired a few months ago. Dick served as acquisition leader for the Department and headed our division when it was organized more than a decade ago. He is enjoying coastal life in Harpswell and likes to hear from us occasionally.

Realty Agent Bruce Lincoln appraises the regional headquarters at Scarborough. Comparative cost studies had to be made before the department could make a decision concerning the relocation of the headquarters to Gray.

Commissioner Glenn Manuel (left) and Engineering Foreman Don Taylor examine a blueprint of the new regional headquarters, to be located in Gray. The new headquarters will replace the Scarborough headquarters. This photograph was taken during groundbreaking ceremonies.

Engineering Division Clayton G. Grant, Chief Engineer Coping with the energy crunch and meeting the needs for repairs and maintenance of the Department's many facilities occupied much of the time and energy of the Engineering Division during the past year. The regional headquarters buildings at Machias and Ashland were insulated, as was a warden camp at Wesley. A number of wood furnaces and wood boilers were installed at the various regional headquarters and hatchery houses. We are anticipating putting in another 16 units this year, which should convert most of our habitable living quarters to wood heat in compliance with Commissioner Manuel's directive. A new boiler was installed at the Federal Street facility in Augusta, which houses the Department storehouse, Division B Warden headquarters, and Region B Wildlife Division and Belgrade Lakes Fishery Division headquarters. Extensive sewer reconstruction work was completed at the Governor Hill Hatchery in Augusta, and at the Greenville headquarters.

A new parking lot was constructed and fenced in at the Dry Mills Game Farm, which has been converted to the Fish and Wildlife Visitors' Center. The Division also did some work for the Atlantic Sea-Run Salmon Commission in the form of repair work at the Veazie Dam. During the winter months, lumber was cut on department lands for use in constructing the new regional headquarters scheduled for construction at the Fish and Wildlife Visitors' Center at Gray. Division personnel were also involved during the winter months in cutting firewood on Department lands for the Engineering Division facilities in Augusta and the Grove Street Garage. The complement of personnel in the division includes three carpenters, one foreman, two seasonal workers, one biologist, and the chief engineer. Clayton Grant, the chief engineer, who ordinarily would write this annual report, was taken ill in June. We hope he will soon be back on the job.

Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

FISH AND WILDLIFE BRIEFS DEER OUTLOOK GOOD Given good hunting conditions, the 1981 deer season should at least equal last year's-the best one in more than a decade. As the leading reason for his optimism on this year's prospects, Commissioner Glenn Manuel cites the past two easy winters which have allowed Maine deer to maintain good physical condition and high productivity. "In much of Maine, winter conditions are the primary limiting factor affecting our deer population,'' he said. "In addition, other factors such as disease and predation also tend to increase or decrease with winter severity. "We have had two mild winters in a row-something that has not occurred for at least a quarter of a century- and as a result, our deer populations have continued to increase throughout the state. Prospects for this fall are excellent," the commissioner concluded. Deer season dates are on the inside back cover. Zone lines are unchanged from last year's. The major deer hunting change is the addition of a three-day season for the exclusive use of muzzle-loading firearms. The law remains, however, that a hunter can take only one deer per year, regardless of whether he or she uses a conventional firearm, a muzzle-loader, or bow and arrow. Full details of the muzzle-loader season may be obtained from the Public Information Division in the department's Augusta office. BEAR TEETH Successful bear hunters are reminded that they are now required to submit a premolar tooth from their bear before it can be legally registered. Bear registration agents have been supplied with toot~ envelopes and tooth removal instructions for huntMaine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

ers. They will also collect and retain these envelopes as part of the registration process. Bear teeth are needed by wildlife biologists to provide information valuable to the proper management of Maine's bear population. Teeth provide them with the age of individual animals and allow analysis of population trends. The premolar tooth is the small tooth behind the big canine (fang) tooth. There are usually four, one behind each canine. Hunters are required to submit only one. The tooth is easily removed, and its removal does not detract from trophy mounting.

1981 LICENSE FEES* RESIDENT Hunting (16 and oldl'r) fishing ( 16 and oldl'r) Combinalion Hunting and fishing ( 16 and oldl'r) Junior Hunting ( 1010 IS ~-l'ars indusi\'l') Combination fishing and Arrhl'r~ Hunting (16 and oldl'r) Sl'r\'irl'man (rl'sidl'nt) Combination Hunting and fishing Arrhl'r~· Hun ling ( 16 and oldl'r) Muzzll'-loading (rl'quirl'd, with hunting lkl'nSt', ror sperial dttr season) Trapping ( 16 and oldl'r) Junior Trapping (10 to IS ~·nrs lndusi\'e) Guidl' ( 18 and older)

S 9.00 9.00 16.00 1.00 16.00 5.00 9.00 7.00 25.00 5.00 34.00

NONRESIDENT CITIZEN Big Gaml' Hunting ( IO yl'ars and oldl'r) Season fishing ( 16 and older) Junior Season 1-lshing (12 to IS ind.) IS-da~· fishing 7-day fishing 3-da~· fishing Combination Hunting and fishing (16 and oldl'rl Small Game Hunting ( 16 and oldl'r) Junior Small Gaml' Hunting (10 to IS ~Hrs indusl\'l') Arrhl'f~· Hunting ( 16 and oldl'r) Muzzll'·loading (requlrl'd, with big gaml' hunting licl'nse. for sperial dttr season) Guidl' ( 18 and older) Trapping (an~· a11e)

65.00 30.00 3.50 20.00 17.00 9.00 87.00 35.00 15.00 JS.00 30.00 130.00 300.00

NONRESIDENT ALIEN BIR Gaml' Huntlnic ( 10 and oldl'r)

105.00

Season fishing Combination Huntlnic and 1-lshin11 ( 10 and oldl'r) Small Gaml' Hunting (10 and oldl'rl Arrhl'r~· Huntin11 ( 16 and oldl'r) Muzzle-loading (required, with !>lg game hunting lkl'nSt', for sperial dttr St'llson) Guidl' (18 and oldl'r)

50.00 140.00 50.00 50.00

*Not including issuing agent fee of$/ .

45.00 155.00

05298 WHERE ARE YOU? Fishing on the Penobscot River near his Old Town home on July 5, Franklin Oakes hooked and landed an 8-pound Atlantic salmon. Nothing very startling about that anymore, although a few years ago it would have been. Oakes noted that the salmon was tagged, wearing Atlantic Salmon Commission tag number 0527B. Nothing very unusual about catching a tagged salmon, either. Imagine the odds, though, against the same fisherman catching another salmon bearing the next tag in number sequence. That's exactly what Oakes learned he had done when an 8 ~-pound fish he caught four days later was found to be sporting tag number 0528B! The salmon, in their fifth summer, had been tagged at the Atlantic Salmon Commission trap at Veazie, a few miles downstream, on May 22, 1981. When last seen, Oakes was looking for number 0529B! NEW LOOK IN LABELS Your magazine label has changed! We are using a new system-and you no longer have a number to remember! What we ask is this: when you send in a renewal or change of address, please include the information from your label, making sure that your name and address are the same as they appear there! We then can quickly make whatever changes are necessary, and you will receive Maine Fish and Wildlife with no interruption in service.

'82 MOOSE HUNT Planning is underway for the 1982 moose hunting season, despite an effort to have the law authorizing it repealed. The Fish and Wildlife Department 31

will hold a public hearing or hearings this fall before setting the exact season dates and other regulations. It is expected that application blanks will be available early in 1982 and that the drawing will be next spring to select the 900 resident and 100 nonresidents who will receive moose hunting permits. Meanwhile, a petition drive to force a referendum vote on the moose hunting question failed to gather enough signatures, but supporters have stated they will not give up their effort to protect moose from legal hunting. The winter issue of Maine Fish and Wildlife wiH contain an update on the entire moose hunting issue.

PERSONNEL NEWS Recent personnel changes in the Fish and Wildlife Department include the retirement of William C. Mincher, director of public information and editor of Maine Fish and Wildlife · magazine.

Mincher was one of the founders of the original Maine Fish and Game magazine, shortly after he began work with the department in 1958. He was managing editor until 1964, and then editor. Also in 1964, he was promoted to chief of the Information and Education Divi sion, a position he held until 1980, when he became the first director of the department's new Regulations Division. Another retirement, in the Warden Service, was that of Warden Sergeant Russell S. Cook of Bucksport. Cook had been a game warden for 21 years,

first in a wilderness district at Portage Pond, later at Houlton. He became a game warden inspector (now sergeant) in 1969. Also in the Warden Service, recent promotions include John G. Crabtree and William J. Vail, who became game warden lieutenants-Crabtree in charge of Division B, headquartered in Augusta; Vail in charge of Division A, Scarborough. Promoted to the rank of sergeant were Roger E. Wolverton, Division B, and Daniel J. Watson and Francis E. Reynolds, both in Division G, Ashland.

If You Were Editor . . . Now and again it's good policy to survey operations and reappraise activities, with a view to improving efficiency and effectiveness. One of the means by which a publication judges its effectiveness is through letters from readers which offer timely suggestions and constructive criticism reflecting the point of view of the readership. We should like to know what you

think of the subject matter covered in Maine Fish and Wildlife. Your comments on the types of articles published are invited, along with suggestions as to future articles which would be of value and interest. In short, what articles would you publish "if you were editor"? Just send your letters to the Editor, Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine, 284 State St., Station 41, Augusta, ME 04333.

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Maine Fish and Wildlife-Fall 1981

1981 MAINE HUNTING SEASONS EFFECTIVE THROUGH MARCH 31, 1982 This is not a legal presentation. Seasons and limits may change. Refer to the hunting regulations booklet for full details. FIRST DAY DEER:

BASIC LIMITS DAILY POSSESSION

LAST DAY

Firearms season, Northern Zone Firearms, Southern Zone . Firearms, Western Zone .

2 Nov.t 9 Nov. t 9 Nov.t

28 Nov. 28 Nov. 21 Nov.

Archery, Northern Zone . Archery, Southern Zone . Archery, Western Zone ..

1 Oct. 1 Oct. 1 Oct.

30 Oct. 6 Nov. 6 Nov.

30 Nov. 30 Nov. 23 Nov.

2 Dec. 2 Dec. 25 Nov.

BEAR :*tt . . . . . .

1 Oct.

28 Nov.

RUFFED GROUSE: (No open season on spruce grouse)

1 Oct.

28 Nov.

PHEASANT : .

1 Oct.

28 Nov.

WOODCOCK: .

25 Sept.

28 Nov.

1 Sept.

15 Dec.

Muzzle-loading, Northern Zone . Muzzle-loading, Southern Zone . Muzzle-loading, Western Zone.

WILSON'S SNIPE: DUCKS, GEESE, BRANT :

SEA DUCKS (Scoter, eider, old squaw) : ***

RAILS (Sora and Virginia):

ONE DEER OF EITHER SEXttt

ONE BEAR OF EITHER SEXttt 8

Seasons set annually, in late August or early September. Copies of regulations may be obtained at post offices where federal duck stamps are sold, or from Maine game wardens. 1 Oct.

15 Jan .

1 Sept.

14 7 (IN AGGREGATE)

7 Nov.

1 Sept.

7 Nov.

14 Mar.

30 Apr.

GALLINULES: . CROW: . . . . . .

16 July

29 Sept.

28 Feb.

BOBCAT:tt .

1 Dec.

COYOTE: FOX:

NO CLOSED SEASON FOR HUNTING Northern & Western Zones .

20 Oct.

15 Feb.

Southern Zone

28 Oct.

15 Feb.

1 Oct.

30 Nov.

GRAY SQUIRREL : PORCUPINE: .. . .

NO CLOSED SEASON FOR HUNTING

RABBIT (Cottontail) and HARE (Snowshoe) : RACCOON:

1 Oct.**

Northern & Western Zones.

20 Oct.

Southern Zone

28 Oct.

RED SQUIRREL : SKUNK: . . . .. WOODCHUCK : .

31 Mar.

30 Nov.

NO CLOSED SEASON FOR HUNTING 20 Oct.

15 Dec.

NO CLOSED SEASON FOR HUNTING

tThe Saturday before this date is open for Maine residents only . ttOuota restrictions may end the season earlier - check with Fish and Wildlife Department Officials . ttt All deer and bear must be registered at registration stations. See regulations booklet for details. *No bear hunting with more than 4 dogs. No bear hunting with dogs during the regular firearm season on deer in that area . **Unlawful to hunt rabbits with dogs during any open firearms season on deer in Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, and Washington counties. ***The special sea duck season is for all coastal waters and all waters of river and streams seaward from the first upstream bridge; in all other areas, sea ducks may be taken only during the regular open season on ducks.

SUNDAY HUNTING: Illegal in Maine. SHOOTING HOURS: On animals, Y:z hour before sunrise to Y:z hour after sunset, except that during any firearms season on deer, hunting closes at sunset for all species except raccoon . On game birds, shooting hours are Y:z hour before sunrise to sunset . LICENSES: Hunting license is required . To hunt during muzzle-loading season on deer, special license is required in addition to regular hunting license. Archery license authorizes hunting, with bow and arrow only, during any open season on that species, except as otherwise provided ; a person with a regular hunting license may also hunt with bow and arrow, except during the special archery season on deer. STAMPS: Don't forget to purchase a federal duck stamp and/or a Maine pheasant stamp if you intend to hunt these species.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife

284 State St.,

Sta. #41

Augusta, Maine 04333