Lakeview Trail at Eastman Lake closed to protect bald eagles

Published Feb. 20, 2013
Eagles are once again nesting in a portion of Eastman Lake Park, prompting temporary changes for visitors. This young eaglet was photographed by Keith Willis in 2008.

Eagles are once again nesting in a portion of Eastman Lake Park, prompting temporary changes for visitors. This young eaglet was photographed by Keith Willis in 2008.

EASTMAN LAKE, Calif. (Feb. 20, 2013) – The Lakeview Trail at Eastman Lake will be temporarily closed immediately through July 31, 2013, to protect nesting bald eagles, according to park officials at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District park near Madera.

Park rangers posted closure signs at the Raymond Bridge and Codorniz Recreation Area trailheads at the conclusion of the Presidents’ Day holiday weekend.

Bald eagles began nesting at Eastman Lake in 1993. Since that time, over 40 eagles have fledged from nests at Eastman Lake, making this one of the most productive bald eagle sites in California.

The eagles, which have begun sitting on their nest, are sensitive to human activity. Disturbances caused by recreational use of the Lakeview Trail could lead to the adult eagles abandoning the nest or young eagles flushing the nest before they are fully able to fly.

Bald eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The Corps is committed to the protection of endangered and threatened species, and manages its lands to promote the survival of these species for future generations.

Eastman Lake apologizes for any inconvenience the closure will have on visitors. The public can assist in the survival of these birds by complying with this closure.

Those who wish to learn more about Eastman Lake’s bald eagles are encouraged to attend a ranger-led bird walk. Upcoming walks are on March 9 and April 13. The walks begin at 9 a.m. at the Chowchilla boat ramp in Eastman Lake’s day-use area.

For more information regarding the Lakeview Trail closure at Eastman Lake, please call 559-689-3255. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Contact
Jerry Magnuson
559-689-3255

Release no. 13-006