Today is Landowner Appreciation Cleanup Day in Maine

In support of efforts to clean up illegally deposited items on private woodlands, Maine Governor Paul LePage has declared today, 15 October, as "Landowner Appreciation Cleanup Day." The proclamation addresses the generosity of both small and large woodland owners who graciously allow access to their properties for recreational use. The goal of this event is twofold. First, to provide a means to thank Maine's private landowners, most of which allow free recreational use of their property and, secondly, to properly dispose of illegally discarded items and discourage further dumping on these sites.

So far, Maine forest rangers and Small Woodland Owners Association of Maine members have identified more than 100 illegal dump sites on private land throughout Maine. The Maine Forest Service has organized the event and will supply trucks and trash bags to haul the discarded materials to nearby transfer stations, many who have offered to waive fees for these materials. (Volunteers are still needed to take part in the "Landowner Appreciation Cleanup Day" and are urged to call 800-750-9777 to offer their assistance.)

To access a copy of the Landowner Appreciation Cleanup Day proclamation, please visit:

Maine Office of the Governor: Landowner Appreciation Cleanup Day 2011 Proclamation (13 OCT 11)

Background information:

Maine Forest Service

Small Woodland Owners Association of Maine