From Frigid Maine...
It’s been an especially cold winter, but the spring thaw is just around the corner and we’re already getting excited for another camp season!
While Hog Island rests under shorter days and quieter shores, the work of preparing for the season ahead is already well underway. Summer 2026 will be here before we know it, and we’re reaching out with a few important updates for our Friends of Hog Island community.
First, volunteer spots for next summer’s camp sessions are filling quickly. We’ve updated the volunteer sign-up form to clearly show where help is still needed in the kitchen and with cleaning living spaces. We are especially in need of support for Joy of Birding, June 21-26, and Family Camp I, July 12-17. If you’ve been thinking about volunteering—or returning to the island in this essential behind-the-scenes role—now is the time—sign up today.
We’re also looking ahead to a milestone moment: the 90th Anniversary of Hog Island Audubon Camp, to be celebrated August 21–23. Volunteer positions for that weekend are already full, but there are still wonderful ways to take part. Whether you can join us for the full weekend or just Saturday’s festivities, we hope you’ll consider being part of this historic celebration. Details and registration information are available on the Hog Island website.
To get you through the winter doldrums, Audubon is once again holding their Ornithology Online courses. This self-paced program is perfect for beginning birders and anyone wanting to sharpen their identification skills and deepen their bird knowledge. Scroll down to find instructions below on how FOHIs can use a special promo code to participate.
Finally, we want to share some news that has been weighing heavily on our hearts. In January, the Hog Island community lost one of its brightest and most beloved spirits, Mary La Creta. As our board member, Nancy Dickinson, described her, “Mary was a sassy, funny, clever, and endlessly energetic force of nature—on Hog Island and far beyond it.” She was a true champion for the natural world and for everything we hold dear as a community. Donations in her honor can be made on our website or by check, helping to carry forward the spirit, passion, and light she so freely shared with all of us.
Warm wishes,
Team FOHI
90th Anniversary at Hog
Join us for the celebration Aug 21-23
Hog Island Audubon Camp opened in 1936 with a singular vision – to teach people about nature conservation and inspire them to become leaders in the environmental movement in their own communities. Thousands of people have been touched by the magic of Hog Island over the years creating ripple effects that have been felt across the country. We are proud to be here today continuing the legacy of exceptional environmental education.
There are a variety of ways for joining in the fun.
- 90th Anniversary Weekend Session
- FOHI Appreciation Dinner & Keynote
- 90th Anniversary Open House
Click here for all the details and to register before spaces fill up!
Looking to broaden your identification skills and bird knowledge in 2026? Ornithology Online from Hog Island Audubon Camp is a great place to start.
This online program allows you to follow along at your own pace to lectures, readings, and quizzes brought to you by Dr. Steve Kress, founder of Project Puffin. You’ll also have access to five live Q&A sessions where you can gather with your classmates and ask Dr. Kress all your burning questions about birds!
Friends of Hog Island supporters can use promo code FOHI26 for $25 off Ornithology Online registration. Learn more!