Scarborough, Maine (NEWS CENTER)-- The Wall of Shame is a trailer which can be towed to fairs and other public places. The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife uses it to show the amount of wildlife that is being poached in Maine.
In 1989, Operation Game Thief was formed to provide a tip line for people who witnessed poaching violations. The OGT board does not make specific numbers available, but does say thousands of dollars have been paid out to those who have called in tips.
Last week, the OGT Board of Directors voted to expand the program to include salt water violations. It's a significant increase in the program.
Col. Joseph Fessenden of the Maine Marine Patrol says he's excited about the program, particularly because it will now include salt water violations committed by recreational and professional fishermen.
"We thought they might be just looking at recreational fishing," said Fessenden. "At the board meeting, it was pretty obvious to me that they wanted to protect all of Maine's natural resources which I thought was pretty good.
People who witness a poaching violation may call 1-800-ALERT-US or log on to the maineogt.org website and fill out the form. All reports will be kept anonymous.
