RANGELEY – More than 60 members and guests of the Rangeley Region Guides’ and Sportsmen’s Association discussed the implications surrounding the proposed fall bear referendum at the March meeting.

Jennifer Vashon, bear biologist, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife; Past Deputy Commissioner Skip Trask; Bob Parker of Stony Brook Guides Service; and Mark Stadler, Wildlife Division in Augusta, explained Maine’s present bear management techniques.

Legislation, L.D. 1938, recently introduced in the Maine Legislature, is designed to outlaw all bear hunting by bait, trap or hounds. The association members said the referendum would mean an economic loss to the people of Maine as well as many changes to wildlife management. Those present said they feel that the law’s sponsors, the U.S. Humane Society, is making it into a complex issue.

Sporting groups, including the association, are forming a broad coalition to provide funds and information to defeat the attempt at redefining Maine’s hunting law. For more information visit www.mefishwildlife.com and www.maineguides.org

The association will next meet on Thursday, May 20, at the clubhouse on Old Skiway Road in Oquossoc. All are welcome and are asked to bring something, either a main dish, salad or dessert, for the 5:30 p.m. potluck meal.