Mississippi encourages continued wetland management after duck hunting season ends

Mississippi wildlife officials urge landowners to keep water on managed wetlands even after duck hunting season ends. The goal is to support migratory birds still present in the state and those passing through on their northward migration, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

Officials recommend holding water in moist-soil wetlands and areas planned for late-season crops. These areas can benefit from extended water retention. Conversely, flooded bottomland hardwood forests should be drained earlier to allow roots to dry for the upcoming growing season, the department said.

Holding water into spring or early summer offers additional habitat management advantages. It can help suppress invasive plants and maintain soil moisture for next season’s waterfowl foods, officials noted. Land managers are advised to consider their options and plan ahead before draining wetlands at season’s end.

MDWFP Waterfowl Coordinator Houston Havens discusses the importance of maintaining water in a video available on YouTube. He explains how extended water retention supports wildlife and habitat health. The video can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HNRonSCnE8.

Source: Original Article