When Mike collects money from someone for access, he assumes a certain amount of liability for thier actions. There is a known risk of extreme fire danger in the Deep Creek region. Negligent behavior by his patrons exacerbated by a lack of monitoring at the Bowen Ranch could result in a catastrophinc wildfire damaging both private and public lands in the region. Should this scenario become a reality, legal action will surely follow.
Does Mike bear a responsibility for the negligent actions of his customers and himself? During fire closures in this area, the gate at the Bowen Ranch has remained open and the collection of access fees has continued. This not only encourages illegal access to Deep Creek, but endangers public safety as well.