Full Breakdown
Efforts to Save Jackie and Shadow: The Fight Against Moon Camp Development
2/21/2026, 9:15:12 PM
Core Event: Threat to Bald Eagle Nest from Luxury Development
The proposed Moon Camp luxury housing development near Big Bear Lake, California, poses a significant threat to the nesting site of the famous bald eagle pair, Jackie and Shadow. The Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) have launched a fundraising campaign to raise $10 million to purchase the land and prevent construction, citing the detrimental impact on the eagles and local biodiversity.
Background & Context: The Moon Camp Development
The Moon Camp project, initially proposed in 2001, aims to create a 50-lot subdivision with luxury homes and a marina on the North Shore of Big Bear Lake. Although the project was halted in 2022, it received approval again in 2025 from the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. The area is crucial for Jackie and Shadow, as it serves as their hunting grounds and nesting site.
Key Figures & Groups: Friends of Big Bear Valley
Sandy Steers, the late Executive Director of FOBBV, was a prominent advocate against the Moon Camp development for nearly 25 years. Following her passing, the organization intensified its efforts to save the eagles' habitat, emphasizing the urgency of their fundraising campaign. The group has partnered with the San Bernardino Mountain Land Trust to facilitate the potential purchase of the land for conservation.
Why It Matters: Ecological Impact
The development threatens not only Jackie and Shadow but also other endangered species and rare plant species in the area, such as the ash-gray Indian Paintbrush. Experts have warned that the construction would significantly disrupt the eagles' ability to raise chicks and may even drive them away from their nesting site altogether.
Official Statements & Responses
The Friends of Big Bear Valley stated, “We need everyone to become Jackie and Shadow’s hero,” urging the public to support their fundraising efforts. They highlighted the ecological importance of the area, noting that it is home to various species that rely on the ecosystem. The organization has created a dedicated website, SaveMoonCamp.org, to facilitate donations and raise awareness about the campaign.
Criticism & Opposition: Community Concerns
While the FOBBV advocates for conservation, some community members may support the development for economic reasons, such as increased tourism and job creation. However, the potential ecological damage and loss of habitat for Jackie and Shadow remain central to the opposition's arguments.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a discrepancy regarding the timeline of the Moon Camp project, as it was initially halted in 2022 but received approval again in 2025. The exact reasons for the renewed approval and the community's response to this decision have not been fully detailed in the sources.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have to raise $10 million in less than 6 months,” — Friends of Big Bear Valley
- “This quiet, dark-skies community has amazing biodiversity that makes it unique in the world. These species, including Jackie and Shadow, deserve to have their habitat preserved for the long-term benefit of everyone.” — Sandy Steers
- “The destruction of this shoreline will make it more difficult for Jackie and Shadow to raise chicks and the disturbance may cause them to leave their nesting area altogether.” — Friends of Big Bear Valley
As the fundraising deadline approaches on July 31, 2026, the FOBBV continues to rally support to protect the habitat of Jackie and Shadow, emphasizing the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem for future generations.
