Focus on the Outdoors piece on the potential economic impact of bird-watching,

Focus on the Outdoors piece on the potential economic impact of bird-watching, a multi-billion-dollar growth industry. Rep. Sean Faircloth, D-Bangor, introduced a bill last month to establish a statewide commission to develop and promote ecotourism, in particular, birding. The proposal has been replaced with a plan to have the Natural Resources Committee of the Maine Tourism Commission quantify the economic potential for birding in Maine. Chip Gray, general manager of the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport, is already involved with Maine Audubon to create lodging packages that include bird-related activities and events. Supporters of a Maine Birding Trail say the project will feature a list of places to eat, stay and visit along the trail. Details