In his recent guest column (Jan. 23) on Sunday hunting, George Smith, executive director of the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, conveniently neglects several salient facts.

Ninety-five percent of the land in Maine is privately owned. Access is not a right but a privilege. All recreational users rely on the generosity of landowners who have, to date, graciously provided free access. Landowners have traditionally opposed Sunday hunting. In fact, similar proposals have been defeated 23 times in the Legislature. Mr. Smith states that it is unfair not to have Sunday hunting, as this is the only day that hunters are not busy earning a living. Doesn’t he realize that landowners and other recreational users also work and desire time to pursue their interests.

Some landowners have unfortunately threatened to post their holdings in response to this proposal. Out of respect for landowners, the Maine Snowmobile Association has joined the Small Woodlands Owners Association of Maine and The Maine Farm Bureau in opposing Sunday hunting. Snowmobilers realize that increased posting would limit recreational opportunities for all, including hunters.

This is a poorly crafted deal between the governor and SAM under the guise of solving the budget problems of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. It is little more than a quick fix that will jeopardize the excellent landowner-sportsmen relations that presently exist.

Terry Walters, Hollis Center

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