Spring is in the air, and with it outdoor activities, including bicycle riding. With the growing popularity means even more riders along local roads.

Spring also exposes a residue of winter, sand and gravel covering the shoulders of major roads. Hitting a patch of sand is dangerous for even the most experienced rider, and can send a bike and rider to a hard landing on the pavement.

It is with this in mind that I ask local towns to sweep the shoulders of roads clean of all loose debris. Notorious stretches include:

Route 17 from Old County Road to Route 90;
Route 90 from Route 17 to Route 1; and
Route 1 from Thomaston through Camden; and Route 73 in Owls Head

This simple action by Public Works Departments can help ensure an enjoyable and safe riding season for local residents and visitors.

Gerald Weinand lives in Rockland