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Drone Rules for Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge

Forest City, Missouri (MO) • United States
25542 US-159, Forest City, MO 64451, USA
Lat: 40.0691 • Lng: -95.2264
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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USFWS prohibits drones on Loess Bluffs NWR (formerly Squaw Creek NWR). One of the most spectacular bald eagle concentrations in the lower 48 gathers here in November -- up to 400 eagles in a single day.

Drone Rules - Loess Bluffs NWR, Missouri

Drones are prohibited under USFWS Director's Order 210; the eagle congregation makes Bald Eagle Protection Act violations especially probable.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Up to 400 bald eagles gather in early November to feed on migrating snow geese (400,000+ snow geese also use the refuge)
  • St. Joseph International (STJ) Class D is ~30 NM south; Kansas City International (MCI) Class B outer ring does not reach the refuge
  • The narrow Loess Hills terrain funnels northeast winds; drone flight near the bluffs involves significant wind shear

Key Rules

  • November eagle/snow goose concentration: USFWS ranger presence is highest of the year; citations have been issued to drone operators in the parking area
  • Eagle Protection Act: disturbing 400 roosting eagles in a single flight event creates extraordinary federal penalty exposure
  • USFWS Special Use Permit required; eagle congregation season applications require USFWS Midwest Region approval

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