Rep. Arata's News from the Legislature

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Town of New Gloucester

385 Intervale Road, New Gloucester, ME 04260

(207) 926-4126 (phone) / (207) 926-4136 (fax)

Town of Poland

1231 Maine Street, Poland, ME 04274

(207) 998-4601 (phone) / (207) 998-2002 (fax)

Poland

Your Input on a Possible Legislative Session is Needed

House Republicans have been pushing for legislative action to modify the Governor’s emergency powers and legislative involvement in decisions to safely reopen Maine economically and socially.

Your Opinion Matters

Participation in this short survey will help guide the Caucus in the event the Legislature is able to return to Augusta, provided that an agreement limiting the scope of work to essential items is reached.

>>SURVEY HERE<<

 

Election Results

Many thanks to those who voted during Maine’s primary election!

If you are interested in reviewing statewide election results, click here.

 

Explore Maine’s Scenic Byways

Boasting one of the oldest scenic byway programs in the country, Maine offers travelers diverse landscapes, such as the western mountains and the rugged Downeast coastline.  Maine's byways feature outstanding year-round recreation opportunities, well-preserved rural character, traditional arts and culture, and abundant wildlife.

Simply click on one of Maine's byways indicated on the list below for more information on these unique driving tours.

 

Preventing Conflicts with Black Bears

Over the past century, conflicts between bears and humans in Maine have lessened with changes in agricultural practices, the decline of farming, increased interest in bear hunting, and the species’ rise in status as a game animal.  In addition, Maine has a small human population (1.3 million) that is mostly concentrated in the southern third of the State where bear densities are lower and therefore bear-human conflicts are less numerous.  However, each year, primarily in the spring and early summer, the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife receives numerous calls from homeowners when bears have destroyed bird feeders or disturbed garbage.  Most conflicts with bears can be prevented by removing common food attractants around homes.

To prevent conflicts with black bears (April 1-October 1):

  • bring in your bird feeders, rake up and dispose of any seed left on the ground, and store unused seed inside. If you want to continue to feed birds in the spring and summer, consider using an electrified mat (MS Word);
  • bring trash to the curb on the morning of trash pickup or use a certified bear resistant container;
  • keep dumpster lids closed, and do not allow dumpsters to overflow.  In areas experiencing bear problems, consider storing dumpsters in a secure building or behind electric fencing (MS Word); and
  • clean your grills and empty the grease cup after each use.  Do not discard grease on the ground. Burn-off any food residue, clean blood and grease dripping, and discard food wrappers.

To learn more about preventing bear conflicts in back yards, while camping, or hiking, see Living with Black Bears.