The Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands (FOPPI) have announced a robust schedule of activities on Plum Island during the 2018 summer season.
Mary Beth Volmer, President of FOPPI said, “This is FOPPI’s tenth anniversary year, and it’s exciting and appropriate that there are more opportunities than ever for the public to experience the special nature of Plum Island.”
While the island is open to all visitors arriving by private boat or kayak during daylight hours from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Volmer pointed out that FOPPI is sponsoring or supporting at least one special event each month during the summer. Full descriptions of each event, dates and contact information can be found on the attached calendar.
Highlights include the Washington Islands Birding Festival, a birding weekend that includes trips to Plum Island, and Rock Island for hikes at the peak of the migration season through the Green Bay National Wildlife refuge. Also in 2018, FOPPI will again be supporting the Door County Festival of Nature and Door County Lighthouse Festival with guided hikes and tours.
In July, the popular Friends of Plum Islands Sunset Cruise returns. Volmer said, “this dinner cruise has become one of FOPPI’s most important fundraisers. Moreover, with all the food, music, fellowship, and great views of the islands in the Door, it’s just plain fun.”
In August, guided hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling tours are on the schedule for Explore Plum Island Days.
During nearly every other weekend during the summer, FOPPI will be organizing volunteer work days on the Plum. Of special note in 2018 are several work weekends that include the opportunity to participate in an overnight campout on Plum Island. According to Volmer, many FOPPI members were first volunteers who took advantage of the opportunity to experience the island in a unique and personal way. Volunteer days often include activities by FOPPI’s affiliate organization, Women in Preservation. This group offers women the opportunity to learn new skills from volunteer mentors.
Membership in FOPPI is encouraged but not required to participate in the events on this calendar. More information can be found at FOPPI’s website plumandpilot.org.