Lawmakers to host Fort Kent forum on uptick in moose-related accidents

6 years ago

FORT KENT, Maine — Senate Democratic Leader Troy Jackson of Allagash, Rep. John Martin, D-Eagle Lake, and Rep. Danny Martin, D-Sinclair, will hold a public forum at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 30, regarding the rising number of moose-related accidents in Aroostook County.

The meeting will be held at the Fort Kent Municipal Building and is open to the public. Maine moose biologist Lee Kantar will speak, as well as representatives from Maine’s Department of Transportation and Department of Inland, Fisheries and Wildlife.

According to Maine DOT, there have been an estimated 67 moose-related vehicular accidents in The County this year, with a majority of these accidents occurring on Route 11. A contributing factor to these accidents is the poor conditions of the narrow roadways in Aroostook County.

“With the slew of moose-related accidents over the past few months, we must take precautionary measures to keep Maine drivers on County roads safe,” said Jackson. “Throughout my lifetime, I’ve been in at least five accidents involving a moose and it is no joke. I believe this meeting will provide state officials with critical information from experts and residents to develop a viable strategy going forward.”

“The increase in moose accidents is really troubling,” said Rep. John Martin. “This forum will provide an opportunity for the public to both give ideas and learn from experts on how to deal with this issue.”

“This is a chance for people to learn from each other about the best ways to avoid Moose-related accidents,” said Rep. Danny Martin. “It’s really important for public safety for us to understand this problem and then take action.”