On August  15, a total 40 Audubon chapter leaders  from states stretching along the eastern seaboard (the Atlantic Flyway) came together at National Audubon Society''s Hog Island camp in Maine to polish their leadership skills and learn about their new Atlantic Flyway Initiative.  Among them were seven chapter leaders from Florida.

Little did they imagine that  they would experience plucking  a freshly-boiled periwinkle snail from a cradle of seaweed, sliding it out of its spiral shell, dipping it in melted butter --- and ---eating it? But that is just what they did during the traditional tidal romp, one of the most acclaimed activities at HogIsland.

The weather cooperated  for another tradition, a  boat trip to see the puffins, common eider, terns, gulls, and black guillemot on Eastern Egg Rock.  Complimented by harbor seals sunning on rocky islets,  Atlantic dolphins and  beautiful sunsets, Maine’s tranquil, but rugged environment created an exquisite setting for the 5 day camp.

But it was not all fun and games. The walls of Fishhouse (the meeting hall) became very familiar. Excellent workshops and presentations by both Audubon staff and chapter leaders introduced many to the concept of the Flyways Initiative and inspired chapter leaders to design ways that chapters can become of part of this inspirational strategic plan.  During a very special visit from Audubon President David Yarnold we came to understand how the Atlantic Flyway Initiative aims to improve coordination across the Audubon network to achieve our broad conservation goals.  Targeting conservation action for resident and migratory birds in specific habitats – coastal beaches, salt marsh, forests, grasslands and shrublands within 100 Florida Important Bird Areas (including  30 of global importance) the birds will lead us to our conservation work.  The Atlantic Flyway Initiative fits well into our Florida’s Special Places Campaign.

Stay tuned as these Audubon leaders and staff share their experiences and vision for integrating our Florida programs with the flyways concept at the upcoming Audubon Assembly, Oct. 14-15 in Lake Mary Florida.  You will want to join the session called “Connecting Flyways and IBAs to Florida’s Special Places" to learn more about how your chapter can grow its conservation and education initiatives within the flyway framework.

To learn more about the Hog Island camp and to register for next year’s programs visit: http://projectpuffin.org/OrnithCamps.html.