Legislative Resolve 82: Directing the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to Examine Issues Related to Public Access to Privately Owned Lands
Maine’s tradition of public access to private lands is both culturally and economically significant. With the State’s landscape comprised of approximately 92 percent private ownership, access to private land supports hunting, angling, snowmobiling, ATV riding, hiking, paddling, wildlife watching, trapping, and a wide spectrum of year‑round and seasonal recreation. This access tradition has shaped Maine’s identity and serves as the backbone of rural economies, guiding services, and the outdoor recreation sector.
However, this tradition faces increasing pressures, including expanding user groups, unprecedented levels of visitation, rising infrastructure costs, and new landowner concerns about liability, environmental damage, and inconsistent user behavior. Without proactive, coordinated strategies, Maine risks the gradual erosion of an access system that has long benefited the public while respecting landowners.
Legislative Resolve 82 directed Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife(MDIFW) and Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) to Examine Issues Related to Public Access to Privately Owned Lands and to present a final report back to the Legislature with recommendations and any potential legislation by February 15, 2026. The report—developed through extensive stakeholder engagement, public comment, data analysis, and collaboration between MDIFW and DACF—presents a comprehensive set of recommendations to strengthen the access system by addressing systemic challenges, improving education and enforcement, supporting landowners, and securing predictable long‑term arrangements where appropriate.
MDIFW and DACF are now seeking public comment on the draft report back through January 15, 2026. Comments will be considered and where appropriate incorporated in the final report. The public was also invited to the working group meetings in fall 2025.
Share your feedback with us:
Step One: View the Draft Report Back online (PDF)
Step Two: Submit feedback using this online form by 11:59pm on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
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