ISO Round trip Gull Island

[cynthiasimmons]

I am looking for boat transport to and from Gull Island for a 2-3 day camping trip for four people.

If interested please call Bob Walker at 352-283-5775 or 231 448-3069.

Thanks!
Bob

[Leuck]

Please do not plan a trip to Gull Island. It is part of the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge and is closed to the general public. Here is the information from the Refuge web page: "All islands of the Michigan Islands NWR are closed to the public due to their value to colonial nesting waterbirds. Special Use Permits may be issued for approved purposes. The only exceptions are emergency landings by boats in distress. Wildlife observation and photography are welcome off-shore. Boats should remain a reasonable distance from the islands so they do not disturb nesting birds." (Link: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Michigan_Isl ... tions.html). We have conducted research on Gull Island under a special use permit and know the island well. It is illegal to camp there (even with a special use permit), and we would appreciate your respecting the federal regulations protecting the island. Thank you-- Beth and Ed Leuck

[meadefamily]

Beth and Ed,

Thank you the info. Are the other islands surrounding Beaver Island open for boaters and campers that are not part of the NWR?

Years ago we ran into you on a walk to Sand Bay. You took the time to show our daughter several plants and birds. She was only 7 at the time and still talks about you both and how nice you were. You left an everlasting impression on our daughter and her love for nature.

Blessings to you both.

Kathe

[Leuck]

Kathe, thank you for your kind comments. We are always happy to show off the wonderful flora and fauna of Beaver Island. As to your question about the islands, it might be best to answer by pointing out the ownership of the islands of the Beaver Island Archipelago. Islands that are NOT open to the public are the islands that are part of the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge. They are Gull Island, Hat Island, Pismire Island, and Shoe Island (which is underwater right now due to the high water levels). Privately owned islands are Trout Island and Squaw Island. Islands on which dispersed camping is allowed because they are owned by the State of Michigan are Garden Island, High Island, Hog Island, and Whiskey Island. Garden Island contains some privately-owned land, but the other three islands are owned entirely by the state. DNR regulations about dispersed camping are posted here: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-3 ... --,00.html. We hope that answers your question.

[meadefamily]

Thank you! That is great information. We have always wanted to venture to the islands, I appreciate knowing which ones we can. I think alot of people have just assumed they are all open to public.

Have you ever or have you ever offered lectures on Beaver Island and her natural resources? Even things we can do to help preserve the Island? This Island is such a unique treasure.


Kathe