Summary of National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines (Activity Specific)
Note: This table was developed from information in the National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines. The Guidelines clearly state that until a permit process is in place it is not possible to completely absolve individuals, companies and agencies from liability, even if they follow the Guidelines. Therefore, following this table should not be looked upon as providing complete immunity from prosecution under the BGEPA for any takes of bald eagles.
| Permitted Activities | Specific Considerations | Nest Site Visible | Nest Site Not Visible | Timing of Restriction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No existing Similar activity within 1 mile | 660 ft Buffers recommended | 330 ft or as close as existing tolerated activity of similar scope Between 330 and 660 ft* | *clearing external construction and landscaping outside breeding season |
| Existing similar activity closer than 1 mile | 660 ft Or as close as existing tolerated activity of similar scope | 330 ft or as close as existing tolerated activity of similar scope. Within 660 feet* | * clearing external construction and landscaping outside breeding season | |
| No existing similar activity within 1 mile | 660 ft Buffers recommended | 660 ft | |
| Existing similar activity within 1 mile | 660 ft Or as close as existing tolerated activity of similar scope | 330 ft or as close as existing tolerated activity of similar scope. Within 660 feet* | * clearing external construction and landscaping outside breeding season | |
| Motorized Water Craft | 330ft | 330 ft | During breeding season avoid concentrations and attempt to minimize trips except where eagles have demonstrated tolerance to such activities | |
| Non-motorized recreation use (hiking, camping, trail use) | 330ft ( or far enough not to be audible) | (far enough not to be audible) | Breeding particularly where eagles are unaccustomed to such activities | |
| Helicopter or Aircraft | Except for biologist trained in survey techniques | 1000ft | 1000ft | During breeding season except where eagles have demonstrated tolerance to such activities |
| Blasting or other loud intermittent noises | ½ mile | ½ mile | Away from active nest unless greater tolerance to the activity (similar) has been demonstrated by eagles in that nesting area |
