Furthermore, and perhaps most importantly, proceeds are used to send Maine youngsters, ages 10 through 12, to the Maine summer conservation schools at Bryant Pond and Greenland Point Center in Princeton. These programs teach boys and girls the importance of conservation, a respect for the environment and a working knowledge of outdoor skills such as wildlife identification, fishing, boating safety, archery, firearms handling, hunter safety, forest conservation and map and compass work. In this time of an aging and declining hunter population, it is difficult to grasp why anyone would oppose such a program. Moose Hiding Another recent problem, which has been articulated by The Maine Sportsman's columnist, Bill Silliker, Jr., is increasing reports from moose watchers that they're having greater difficulty finding moose to view and photograph. While it is largely conjecture, the consensus is that hunting is making moose wilder.
Populations are stable or increasing.
However, in light of more collisions in the most popular viewing areas, the Department has recommended stabilizing or even reducing densities in these areas. But such a reduction will only further reduce the likelihood of seeing a moose. These are areas accustomed to moose hunting. Statewide Hunting Problems with the burgeoning moose herd, particularly vehicle collisions, have prompted serious discussions over expanding the area open to hunting. The most recent expansion involved establishment of the southern zone, which some feared would interfere with tourism by frightening off the leaf-peepers.