In light of concerns about the potential impact of the continued spread of COVID-19 variants and their effects on local businesses in Paradise, Mich., Whitefish Point Bird Observatory leadership has decided to again not hold our traditional Spring Fling event in April of 2022.
Normally, we’d use this event as a way to connect, share in the delight of birds spotted at the Point, and give our annual volunteer awards. This Spring Fling event at WPBO is a kickoff of spring migration, initially born of the former 501(c)(3)’s steadfast volunteers and board of directors.
Folks who regularly attend this event, now in its fourth decade, look forward to presentations and programs as well as birding tours at and around the Point. They have the opportunity to interact with field and administrative staff as well as enjoy Paradise prior to peak tourist season in the Upper Peninsula.
With changes to businesses in the tourism industry during this time of year, we simply can’t hold Spring Fling the way we have in the past, even if we wanted to. In place of Spring Fling, our board and staff are adapting our education offerings as well as guided trips and tours to offer higher-quality programs in more locations throughout the state for both new and experienced birders.
“While Spring Fling will be paused for 2022, look for some new and exciting opportunities to birdwatch around the state like never before,” said Board Chair Natasha Koss.
Learn more about Whitefish Point and how you can make the most of your visit there at our website, wpbo.org. Whitefish Point Bird Observatory is a migration monitoring program located in Paradise, Mich., and is owned and managed by Michigan Audubon. The entire Whitefish Point property is owned and managed jointly with partners and neighboring landowners at the Point.
This article appeared in the 2021 Fall Jack Pine Warbler.