Department Receives Last Installment Of $500,000 Gift

AUGUSTA, Maine - Commissioner Roland D. Martin announced today that the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife received a cashier's check for $300,000 as the last installment on a half a million dollar gift by an anonymous donor.

"In these tight fiscal times, it is flattering to see someone support this department in such a generous way," said Commissioner Martin.

The anonymous donor pledged a $500,000 gift to the department last August, after learning of the department's budget challenges in a Northwoods Sporting Journal column authored by Representative Matt Dunlap, who is now the Secretary of State. The $300,000 check was forwarded to his office, and the gift will be placed in the lifetime license endowment fund, per her request. Interest earned from this portion of the gift will be drawn starting in 2010. The first installment of $200,000 was used to supplement hatchery improvements, and purchasing several ATVs for game wardens.

"Her gift is overwhelming. All of us who enjoy the woods and waters of Maine and the services provided by this department are indebted to this gracious lady," said Commissioner Martin.

The donor had earlier stated that she is a person who is at home in the woods, who hunts and enjoys boating. She wants the Department to continue to provide search and rescue efforts but realizes that the funds may not always be there.

In a letter that she sent with the first installment, she said, "Thank you for all your hard work. I believe in your mission, I appreciate the current and historic integrity and accountability of the Department - especially in these fast and high-pressured times - and I hope this helps to perpetuate the activities and ideals of the IFW by buying you a little "breathing room."

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