SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The area bordering and including Lakeview Trail at Eastman Lake (near Madera) is now in its seasonal hunting closure through July 15, 2013 to protect nesting bald eagles.
Visitors wishing to use the trail for hiking or bird-watching are still permitted to do so at this time and hunting continues to be allowed in the area above Raymond Bridge and in most of the park’s wildlife management area.
Bald eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The Corps is committed to the preservation of endangered species to aid in the successful survival of species for future generations.
Eastman Lake’s eagles are recognized as one of the most consistently productive pairs in California. Since 1993, these resident bald eagles have produced 42 young, 37 of which have successfully survived to take flight.
The eagles will be fledging their young this summer. Bald eagles are sensitive to human activity and if they are disturbed, it could result in nest abandonment or their young offspring attempting to fly prior to fledging.
“We are proud to be hosts for this beautiful pair of eagles,” said Eastman park manager Jerry Magnuson. “We regret any inconvenience this restriction may cause, and we appreciate our visitors’ cooperation in helping this threatened species recover.”
For more information regarding this hunting restriction, or information on where hunting is allowed, please contact the Eastman Lake park headquarters at 559-689-3255. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Release no. 12-051