In 2020, over three million people visited Maine state parks.

By statute, Maine Bureau of Parks can train and designate rangers to enforce state laws. Yet, the bureau does not allow them to detain, summons or arrest. Of the 41 who attended last year’s Ranger Academy, none have received the power to enforce laws.

Respected Rep. Thomas Skolfield has introduced L.D. 657, “An Act to Clarify the Law Enforcement Powers of the Bureau of Parks and Lands.” This resolve requires the bureau to designate rangers with the ability to protect visitors and the state’s natural resources.

Park rangers respond yearly to assaults, intoxications, thefts, indecent exposures, opioids, arsons and other offenses. While the bureau issues pepper spray, it refuses to provide rangers with the authority to guard public safety.

While parks file incident reports, few areas record illegal activities. According to last year’s statistics, only 18 of 42 parks reported criminal violations.

In 2020, 145,000 people visited Reid State Park in Georgetown. And yet Reid did not record any complaints. However, Sagadahoc County deputies provided law enforcement assistance to the park 11 times. Nearby Popham Beach State Park reported many instances of illegal drugs, public intoxication, nudity, illicit pictures, speeding and thefts.

Bureau Director Andy Cutko opposes L.D. 657. Concerned residents may contact the Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee in support L.D. 657 at ACF@legislature.maine.gov.

Tim Caverly
Retired Maine ranger
Millinocket