Opposition to proposed expansion of moose hunt in zones 8, 9, 14

By Angela Arno, Piscataquis County Economic Development Council executive director

Dear Commissioner Judy Camuso and members of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, I am writing to formally oppose the proposed expansion of the moose hunt in Wildlife Management Districts 8, 9 and 14, specifically the addition of hunting days during peak foliage season.

I write wearing two hats: as the owner of a small hospitality business in Piscataquis County, and as the executive director of the Piscataquis County Economic Development Council. From both perspectives, I am deeply concerned about the economic, community and long-term regional impacts of these proposed changes.

Fall foliage season is not merely a pleasant time of year for our region — it is one of the most economically critical periods for small businesses across the Moosehead Lake region and greater Piscataquis County. Lodging properties, restaurants, guides, retail shops and service providers rely on this short window to generate the revenue that sustains them through the long off-season. For most, this short time period accounts for 20-25% of their annual income.  Introducing a moose hunt that would effectively close large areas of the North Woods to non-hunting visitors for up to two weeks during peak foliage would have a direct and negative impact on this already fragile rural economy.

Piscataquis County is among the most economically challenged areas in the state. Decisions that risk suppressing one of our strongest tourism seasons should be approached with extraordinary care, transparency and meaningful engagement with the business community. Unfortunately, many local business owners were unaware of the proposed changes until very recently, due to the timing and limited visibility of the public notice process. While legal requirements may have been met, the spirit of public participation — particularly for those most affected — was not.

I also want to acknowledge that this issue is not framed as “hunters versus businesses.” Our region has a long history of supporting responsible hunting traditions and many businesses value and welcome hunters as guests. The current timing of the moose hunt reflects a thoughtful balance that allows both hunting and tourism to coexist with minimal conflict. Altering that balance during peak foliage threatens that coexistence rather than strengthening it.

Finally, as someone committed to long-term regional sustainability, I believe that major regulatory changes should be evaluated not only through the lens of wildlife management goals, but also through their broader economic and community consequences. A healthy moose herd, a vibrant outdoor tradition, and a viable rural economy are not mutually exclusive — but they do require careful, inclusive decision-making.

For these reasons, I respectfully urge Maine Inland Fisheries & Wildlife to reject the proposed expansion of the moose hunt into peak foliage season in zones 8, 9 and 14, and to maintain the current timing that has allowed both hunters and the tourism economy to thrive.

Thank you for considering this perspective and for your service to the people and natural resources of Maine.