> Access to Midway is limited, but it is now open to the public for the
>first time in 50 years. USFWS has contracted with Midway Phoenix
>Corporation to keep the island "open" when the Navy and its environmental
>remediation contractor depart next summer. In turn, Midway Phoenix has
>subcontracted with three outfits to provide tourist opportunities. There is
>a sport-fishing venture (primarily catch and release), a dive-and-snorkel
>company, and the ecotour organization. OSE offers several programs,
>including dolphin research, monk seal research, seabird monitoring, and
>more. Some birding trips are scheduled, too. I don't mean this as
>advertising, but if you want more OSE info, call them at (800) 326-7491 to
>ask about their Midway programs.

Thanks so much for the report. Clarice and I have signed up to go with OSE
to Midway on their February 9-16 seabird monitoring trip. It hasn't filled
(so far just the two of us) but OSE has told us that they would run the trip
anyway. I love the statement in the release form warning you that bicycling
on the island can be hazardous due to large low flying birds.

We are looking forward to doing whatever one does to monitor albatross nests,
and (according to the flyer) mist netting bonin petrels. I'll admit, though,
we're not looking forward to the flight out there. Hoping for good flying
weather!

-------------------------------------
Name: Jerry Broadus
jbroadus at seanet.com
901-16th. St S.W.
Puyallup, Wa. 98371
206-845-3156
12/04/96
18:00:22