Current Projects

Preserving our fragile seabird populations is a balancing act. Birders and vacationers are naturally drawn to Maine's enchanting seabird islands. The birds, of course, have their own agenda when they touch down after their long migration for breeding, egg laying and feeding their young. Access to seabird nesting habitat is restricted during this crucial period, or that year's nesting effort may be lost.

FOMSI was awarded a grant from a private foundation to produce and install educational signs on seabird nesting islands. Volunteers and Refuge staff installed 150 signs at primary island landing sites. We are also pleased that our fellow seabird managers in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia are also using the sign to protect their important colonies in the Maritimes.

In order to familiarize boaters with the sign image, we distributed printed materials as part of the annual Maine boat registration process, provided information at public boat launching ramps and harbormaster offices, and distributed materials through local marinas and other coastal businesses.