GRDA once again establishes eagle nest buffer zone below Pensacola Dam

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GRDA once again establishes eagle nest buffer zone below Pensacola Dam

Jan 14, 2026

New activity in an established bald eagle nest, located in an area below the Pensacola Dam main spillway, has prompted the Grand River Dam Authority to close access to the area, as it has done in previous years. A portion of the spillway area, popular as an off-roading destination, will also be closed to visitors to help protect the nest. The GRDA Ecosystems and Watershed Management Department confirmed the nest activity earlier this week.

"We're seeing the same sort of activity on this nest that we have seen in previous years," said GRDA Corporate Spokesperson Justin Alberty, "so we appreciate the public's cooperation in giving the nest area a wide berth and obeying the signage."

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 yellow perimeter tape and or orange fence barriers. Disturbing a nest is a violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which could result in a criminal fine of $100,000.

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 taking them off the surface of the water or even stealing them from other birds. The best time to watch the birds feed is early in the morning.