I want to thank Ken Scribner for making my case in his letter to the editor (April 17) regarding the bear issue. In opposing the bear referendum, Mr. Scribner claims that “sportsmen” are to thank for the fact that Maine has any wildlife at all and implies that because they foot the bill through their purchase of licenses and equipment, they should dictate how our fish and wildlife are managed.

Perhaps Mr. Scribner is one of the “sportsmen” who likes it that way so that he can make his claims and continue to have control over the public’s resource. Perhaps he is one of the “sportsmen” who opposes creating mandatory funding mechanisms so that non-sportsmen can pay their fair share.

Regardless of who funds fish and wildlife management, the resource belongs to all Mainers. Unfortunately, all Mainers do not have a say in fish and wildlife matters. I would gladly pay higher taxes and fees if it meant that I had a voice in the way the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife manages our fish and wildlife resources.

I am also a “sportsman.” I have supported Maine’s fish and wildlife with my annual purchase of a fishing license and fishing equipment for more than 30 years. I pay an annual boat registration fee that helps to fund IF&W. I also raised my two sons to love the outdoors. Both are now grown men who love to hunt and fish. So I think I’ve planted my share of seeds.

John Glowa, South China

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