THEforemost threat to coastal ecology is the threat of fire. Most of the spruce-studded islands in Maine have become wooded only in the last 60 years when island farming became economically impractical. The invading spruce sprang up in dense stands, growing top-heavy and unstable as they competed for sunlight. Now as they get older, winter storms fell whole swaths of trees, and the forest floor is thick with the tinder of smaller trees that have died from lack of sunlight. This inherent danger of fire is exacerbated by remote coastal locations, fragile coastal ecology, and exposure to sea breezes. COPYRIGHT 2002 DIAMOND PASS PUBLISHING Fires are prohibited on many islands, and in dry spells open fires may be prohibited everywhere. Permits are required for all open fires. NOAA’s weather forecasts (VHF Ch. 01, 02, 03; 207-688-3210) will include fire information. Camp stoves are highly recommended as an alternative. COPYRIGHT 2002 DIAMOND PASS PUBLISHING If you absolutely must have an open fire, use extreme care. Please leave your ax at home. Build the fire below the high-tide line with driftwood only, but do not use lumber from old lobster traps which is often treated with toxic preservative. Do not scour the forests for fuel. The deadwood supports local wildlife, and it will eventually replenish the island’s soil. Be sure to have a bucket or pot filled with water nearby to extinguish wayward sparks. IF YOU ARE READING THIS, YOU HAVE VIOLATED The Maine Forest Service issues permits at the following locations:Permits may be obtained by contacting the Maine State Forest Service at one of the following offices:
Southern Region Headquarters, Augusta
207-287-2275, 800-750-9777
Saco District Headquarters, Gray
207-657-3552
Damariscotta District Headquarters, Jefferson
207-549-7081, 207-549-3802
Central Region Headquarters, Old Town
207-827-6191
Machias River District Headquarters, Jonesboro
207-434-2621
Narraguagus River District Hdqtrs, Cherryfield
207-546-2346
If you plan on having your fire on a private island, you may need to present written permission from the land owner before the permit will be issued.
The "Leave No Trace" philosophy on campfires is as follows:Minimize Campfire Impacts
* Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
* Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
* Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
* Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.