The Friends of Sears Island (FOSI) has received a $5,000 grant from the Davis Conservation Foundation to assist with its capacity building project. Combined with funds from a previously received grant FOSI plans to expand its outreach through educational and public awareness events, and collaboration with area schools, towns and other nonprofits.
FOSI’s outreach development project will be spearheaded by a part-time coordinator who will organize and lead activities and presentations designed to increase the organization’s membership and volunteer base. This, in turn, will increase the greater community’s appreciation of the valuable assets Sears Island offers.
When a Conservation Easement was placed on 601 of the 936 acres comprising Sears Island, FOSI was entrusted with stewardship of this land. The easement, held by Maine Coast Heritage Trust, ensures permanent public access to the many recreational and educational opportunities that abound on the island.
In the past five years FOSI volunteers have made many improvements on trails and encouraged island visitors to want to become good stewards and respect the land. They will continue to offer guided nature walks, some co-sponsored with the Belfast Bay Watershed Coalition, and to lead informal walks. FOSI looks forward to partnering with the Searsport Junior-Senior High School’s upcoming “Expeditionary Learning” project during the 2013-2014 school year.