“Vacationland” is an iconic tagline that promotes the value of Maine’s outdoor heritage. Our identity is about our outdoors, our woods, and our waters. People enjoy our seasonal activities like hiking, hunting, fishing, skiing and snowmobiling. Maine residents need to do what we can to protect these important resources for ourselves and our guests as well as for those in the future.

That is why I support L.D. 489, “An Amendment to the Constitution of Maine To Establish a Right to a Healthy Environment.” The Pine Tree Amendment to Maine’s Constitution protects Maine’s clean and healthy environment and preserves the natural, cultural, recreational and scenic qualities that define our brand. It is important that these resources be protected with the same legal strength as other political, civil, property and human rights.

Maine people want this Pine Tree Amendment. We understand the importance of a livable future where we all can thrive. Every time a Land for Maine’s Future bond has been on the ballot, it has passed. We want our waters to be clean and our land to be available for various forms of recreation. The Pine Tree Amendment would ensure protection of public lands and increase the likelihood of adding more in the future.

I have dedicated most of my life to being a voice for the environment. If the Pine Tree Amendment is added to Maine’s constitution, the work done by dedicated preservationists would be protected from future decisions by subsequent governors or legislators with differing opinions. I could rest easier knowing a healthy environment with multiple opportunities for outside recreation has been protected.

That is why I support L.D. 489, the Pine Tree Amendment. It will transform the way we think about our future by protecting our way of life. Ah, Maine: “The way life should be.”

 

Linda Woods

Waterville

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