Grand River Dam Authority
01/09/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/09/2025 14:37
Bald Eagles back on the nest; GRDA eagle nest buffer zone below Pensacola Dam in effect
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Bald Eagles back on the nest; GRDA eagle nest buffer zone below Pensacola Dam in effect
Jan 09, 2025
The GRDA Ecosystems and Watershed Management Department is reporting that there is new activity in an eagle's nest, like this one, in an area below Pensacola Dam. That same nesting area has been used by eagles for several years now and GRDA is reminding the public of an established buffer zone around the nest.
Langley - Pensacola Dam's resident bald eagle pair is active again in 2025. Their nest, located in an area below the Pensacola Dam's main spillway, has again prompted the Grand River Dam Authority to close access to the area surrounding that nest as it has done in previous years.
"This has been a productive location for this nesting pair since it was established in 2020" said GRDA Biologist Stephen Nikolai. "Since the nesting area was established, this pair has produced healthy offspring almost every year. We would like to thank visitors for giving the eagles space to rear their young in peace while enjoying recreational activities in the spillways."
Management guidelines, established by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service, recommend closing access around nests to allow for a buffer zone of 330 to 660 feet between the nest and public access, depending on exact locations and topography. The restricted area below Pensacola Dam is centered approximately three-quarters of a mile south of the main spillway. "Nesting area/no trespassing" signage designates the closure in that area as well as orange construction barrels along the perimeter. Disturbing a nest is a violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which could result in a criminal fine of $100,000. Any entry into the nesting area is trespassing. Trespassers are subject to citations or arrest by GRDA law enforcement.
For those interested in viewing the eagle activity below the dam, GRDA recommends doing so from the designated "Eagle Pass" area, located on the west side of the spillway channel. To access "Eagle Pass," follow Broadway Avenue south out of Langley to N4475 Road, the road that runs below Pensacola Dam. Go east on N4475 until a bridge is crossed, then turn right (south) onto the dirt road and follow it around to the eagle viewing areas.
Bald eagles will hunt small fish, often snatching them off the surface of the water or even stealing them from other birds. The best time to watch the birds feeding is early in the morning throughout the months of January and February.
GRDA Off Road Trails - Eagle Nest Buffer Zone below Pensacola Dam