Following a four-month closure to protect nesting golden eagles, the USDA Forest Service has reopened all climbing areas in Boulder Canyon.

“Unfortunately, the Boulder Canyon eagles were unsuccessful in nesting this year,” said wildlife biologist Aurelia DeNasha. “While the full reason isn’t 100% known, the late spring snow could have played a part.” Due to this, closures were left in place to allow any late season nesting which can occur through mid- May. Monitoring was discontinued when no activity was seen past May 18. “The eagles were observed landing at several locations, and even brought new branches to the Blob and Bitty sites,” DeNasha reported, “but no further nesting activity was documented.”

Cooperation by climbers in the closures is vital to the eagles’ success each season. “Golden eagle pairs are most susceptible to disturbance when choosing a nesting site. These closures allow the birds to pick the best site for survival without impact of other factors, such as human presence. Once chosen, the area around the nest site will stay closed until the eagles fledge in late July,” said DeNasha.

The annual nesting closure, usually effective until July 31, protects a long- established golden eagle nesting territory and includes popular rock climbing spots at Eagle Rock, Blob Rock, Bitty Buttress, and Security Risk in Boulder Canyon. These areas are located along Colorado Highway 119, approximately 1.5 miles east of Boulder Falls. Happy Hour, Bihedral, and Riviera remain open if visitors stay out of the closed areas.

The Boulder Ranger District partners with the Boulder Climbing Community and the Access Fund to monitor nesting progress and to inform climbers about the importance of giving the eagles space to raise their young.

It is against federal and state law to disturb any nesting bird of prey. Only Boulder Climbing Community employees and volunteers, and wildlife professionals under an agreement with the Forest Service, may enter nesting areas for monitoring purposes. This is for the integrity of the nests and the safety of the eagles, those conducting surveys, and the public. Visitors can help protect wildlife by respecting all closures and leaving immediately if you should accidentally enter one.

For the most current closure information, check signs in the areas, visit local climbing websites or http:// www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/arp/recreation (click on Boulder Canyon for more info).