Maine Forest Service Settles Timber Harvesting Case

October 10, 2019

The Maine Forest Service (MFS) has entered into an administrative settlement agreement with Maine Custom Woodlands (MCW). The settlement resolves a lawsuit concerning an alleged violation of the state's Forest Practices Act on land harvested by MCW in Pownal. MFS alleged that MCW timber harvesting activities did not take reasonable measures to protect water quality, which resulted in the deposition of sediment into a local stream. MCW denied and disputed the allegations, but agreed to pay $3,000.00 to resolve the matter. Additionally, MCW agreed to a one-day staff training in best management practices for water quality protection.

MFS and the Attorney General dismissed the lawsuit and released MCW and the landowner from all claims, causes of action and liabilities of any kind relating to the specific violations alleged in the lawsuit. The investigation and settlement negotiations were conducted by Regional Enforcement Coordinator Adam Cates with the assistance of MFS staff.

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