Catch a Glimpse of Bald Eagles at Shenango River Lake Event

TRANSFER, Pa. – Area residents will get a chance to observe America’s majestic national bird at Eagle Fest, which will take place Saturday, Jan. 7, at Shenango River Lake.

The annual event, now in its third year, will include an information session, and participants can take self-guided tours.

The event will start at 9 a.m. at the Chestnut Run Swim Beach, 500 Saranac Drive (state Route 846), with a presentation by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

Eagle Fest is an opportunity to observe and learn about bald eagles in their natural habitat. The large birds nest around Shenango River Lake, including on the river below the dam and throughout the wildlife areas.

When the lake freezes and ice forms, open water becomes prime fishing for bald eagles. Visitors have previously observed more than 90 juvenile and adult bald eagles near Chestnut Run Swim Beach and the Route 18 access area in one day.

Park rangers will be available to answer questions and help locate bald eagles. They will hold stations at the Route 18 Access Area, Mercer Recreation Area and Shenango Recreation Area boat launch. Attendees will also receive a map for an optional self-guided tour around the lake.

Eagle Fest is presented by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District in partnership with the Shenango River Watchers.

Shenango River Lake is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The Shenango River Watchers is a nonprofit watershed group formed to restore and protect the environmental, scenic and recreational attributes of the Shenango River watershed.

In accordance with COVID guidelines, participation in these programs may be limited. Visitors should attend only one program for each presenter to limit congestion.

For information, contact the Shenango River Lake ranger station at 724 646 1124.

Pictured at top: Participants at a past Eagle Fest search for the massive birds at Shenango River Lake.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.