Date: 3/25/13 9:18 am
From: James Speicher <jugornought...>
Subject: [MDBirding] Re: Private property problems


Steve, you make a good point. However after ammending my statement with the addition that the offer of help may be withdrawn freely contingent on the specific help requested, i believe there is potential for a swords into plowshares moment in my approach.

Tyler,� in my opinion offering cash is generally not a welcome approach for someone who has expressed hostility towards strangers.

Maryanne's idea will be the approach of the majority of the listserver's members, but there will be some for whom the lure of this bird will be overwhelming. So they should at least approach the situation with a strategy in hand.

Jim
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Steve Long wrote:

I don't think it would be a good idea for MOST birders to follow Jim's suggestion about offering help. Even if you have substantial experience as a farm hand or whatever, individual farmers have individual methods of doing their chores, which you will not know. The effort needed to supervise even a knowledgeable, but unfamiliar volunteer is usually just not worth the trouble. And, it might seem like an attempt to get onto the property to film or take samples to be used against the property owner later in court. So, I would suggest that most of us steer clear of this type of offer.


From: James Speicher
I'm not in agreement with Jason that it has been concluded that it is a fine idea to go to this location. Legally, certainly within the limits that might vary based on the view of local law enforcement concerning vehicles stopped along roadways/shoulders. However, i do have a suggestion for those who will go:

If you are confronted by the angry/defensive property owner, you might ask him if there is anything you can do to help him out today. The first 1/2 dzn times he is asked, he might have the same reply "Get off my property, " but after that who knows, it may turn him around...

Jim Speicher

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