Fawnskin, California – A high-stakes conservation effort is underway in Big Bear Valley as animal advocates scramble to protect the nesting and foraging grounds of the region’s beloved bald eagle pair, Jackie and Shadow. With a $10 million fundraising deadline set for July 31, 2026, supporters say this may be the final opportunity to permanently preserve critical habitat from nearby luxury development.
The 63-acre North Shore lakefront property, known as Moon Camp, is currently slated for a proposed housing subdivision and marina. Conservation groups warn that construction so close to the eagle nest could cause irreversible ecological damage.
Incident Overview
Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) announced on Feb. 19, 2026, that it is leading an urgent fundraising campaign to secure the Moon Camp property in Fawnskin, California. The land lies less than one mile from Jackie and Shadow’s nest, making it a vital area for perching and foraging.
The site is also home to a rare and endangered plant species, further raising environmental concerns.
After decades of opposition to development plans, the property’s developer has granted the San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust (SBMLT) a limited option to purchase the land outright — but only if the organization can raise the full $10 million within six months.
Timeline of Events
The development proposal has faced public resistance for more than 25 years. Conservation advocates argue that the project would disrupt one of Southern California’s most visible bald eagle territories.
In September 2025, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approved the development despite receiving more than 5,000 public emails opposing the plan.
Earlier this month, longtime environmental leader Sandy Steers, executive director of FOBBV, passed away on Feb. 11, 2026, shortly after helping negotiate the land purchase option. Steers had made the Moon Camp preservation effort her top priority.
As of Feb. 23, 2026, the campaign had raised $303,026.26 toward the $10 million goal.
Details from Conservation Leaders
Before her passing, Steers emphasized the urgency of the effort and the broader ecological implications.
“We need everyone to become Jackie and Shadow’s hero,” Steers said in a statement before her death.
She also highlighted the importance of preserving biodiversity in the region.
“Every single Bald Eagle is an amazing individual being with the right to thrive. Big Bear Valley is the seventh most biologically diverse ecosystem in the country; it is essential that we protect and preserve our unique and rare species.”
FOBBV described the fundraising campaign as its most ambitious initiative in nearly 25 years, calling on its 2.4 million social media followers to help spread awareness.
Why Experts Warn of “Significant Detrimental Impact”
Wildlife experts have repeatedly warned that residential construction near active bald eagle nests can result in long-term behavioral changes, habitat displacement, and potential abandonment of nesting territories.
Jackie and Shadow have become nationally recognized through live nest cameras and social media, drawing millions of viewers during nesting season. Conservationists argue that losing their habitat would not only affect the pair but could disrupt the broader ecosystem that depends on protected shoreline and forest areas.
The Moon Camp property connects directly to adjacent United States Forest Service land. If purchased, it would be permanently preserved and added to protected public lands.
Key Facts
- 63 acres of North Shore lakefront at risk
- Located in Fawnskin, California
- Less than 1 mile from Jackie and Shadow’s nest
- Fundraising goal: $10 million
- Raised so far: $303,026.26 (as of Feb. 23, 2026)
- Deadline: July 31, 2026
- More than 5,000 public opposition emails submitted in 2025
- Public resistance spans 25+ years
Additional Environmental Context
Bald eagles were once on the brink of extinction in the United States due to habitat destruction and pesticide exposure. Though populations have rebounded since federal protections were enacted, habitat preservation remains critical to sustaining local nesting pairs.
Development along lakefront and forest ecosystems can fragment wildlife corridors, increase human-wildlife conflicts, and disturb feeding patterns. Conservation groups argue that once land is subdivided and built upon, restoration becomes nearly impossible.
Protecting Moon Camp, advocates say, is about more than a single eagle pair — it is about preserving one of California’s most biologically diverse mountain ecosystems for future generations.
Conclusion
With less than six months to secure the full $10 million, conservation groups describe the campaign as a pivotal moment for Big Bear Valley. If the goal is met by July 31, 2026, the land will be permanently protected. If not, construction plans could move forward.
For supporters of Jackie and Shadow, the coming months may determine whether the iconic bald eagle pair can continue nesting undisturbed in Big Bear.
What do you think about protecting wildlife habitats near expanding residential developments? Share your experiences in the comments below.
