AUGUSTA — The Maine Forest Service (MFS) has entered into an administrative settlement agreement with Maine Custom Woodlands (MCW). The settlement resolves an alleged violation of the state’s Forest Practices Act on land harvested by MCW in Pownal.
MFS alleged that MCW timber harvesting activities did not take reasonable measures to protect water quality, which resulted in the deposition of sediment into a local stream. MCW denied and disputed the allegations, but agreed to pay a $3,000.00 settlement payment for the violation. Additionally, MCW agreed to a one-day staff training in best management practices for water quality protection.
“These types of situations often result from inadequate harvest planning or a failure to review the forestry rules before the harvest begins,” said Adam Cates, MFS Regional Enforcement Coordinator. “In this particular instance, had MCW appropriately used best management practices the issue could easily have been avoided.”
The investigation and settlement negotiations were conducted by Regional Enforcement Coordinator Adam Cates with the assistance of MFS staff.
“Our goal is to improve the management of Maine’s forests,” said Patty Cormier, MFS Bureau Director. “Our agency focuses on educating and informing landowners to reduce the possibility of such violations. However, when violations do occur, we have a responsibility to uphold the law. We take this and our other responsibilities very seriously.”
ABOUT MFS
Established in 1891, the MFS mission is to protect and enhance Maine’s forest resources through forest fire prevention; technical assistance; education and outreach to a wide variety of audiences; and enforcement of the State’s forest protection laws. MFS offices are located throughout the state and provide Maine citizens with a wide range of forest-related services. For more information visit www.maineforestservice.
–Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
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