Is it possible that Gov. Baldacci’s proposal to allow Sunday hunting would do more harm than good? People, such as members of the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, complain that land is being closed for “traditional” uses. As a small landowner, I try to keep my property open to other people for such activities as hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, hunting and fishing.

However, as the owner, I feel I should be able to have some control over what, when and where these activities take place. Making hunting on Sunday legal does not help me do this. I like to have one day a week that I can access my property without thought of hunters. I know that most hunters do so safely.

The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife no doubt needs more funds. Why should “sportsmen” be expected to provide these funds? The “game” belongs to all the people of Maine. Many people enjoy the creatures of our great state. Would it not be fair if they were asked to help pay to maintain this asset?

Taxes and fees directly and indirectly are already collected by the state for non-hunting activities that involve our animals and birds. For instance, how many people take more than one picture of some type of wildlife, or take a ride to see a moose, a beaver dam or a rare bird? You get the idea. Money spent, taxes collected.

Leon Akers, Andover

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