Mississippi wildlife officials advise landowners to keep water on managed wetlands through the end of the duck hunting season and into early summer. This effort aims to support migratory birds still present in the state and those passing through on their northward migration.
Officials suggest that moist-soil wetlands and areas planned for mid or late-season crop planting are suitable for holding water longer. Conversely, flooded bottomland hardwood forests should be drained earlier to allow roots to dry for the upcoming growing season.
Maintaining water levels can provide habitat management benefits, such as suppressing invasive plants and ensuring soil moisture for next season’s waterfowl foods, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP). The agency encourages landowners to consider their options and plan ahead before draining wetlands.
MDWFP Waterfowl Coordinator Houston Havens explains the importance of retaining water after the season in a video available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HNRonSCnE8.
Jon R Myers is the executive editor of Alcorn County News and the founder of the Mississippi News Group, which he started in 2013 to cover communities across North Mississippi. He also founded the Mississippi Sports Group in 2006, which grew from a single community publication into a statewide network covering high school and college athletics. He reports on local government, public safety, schools and community life in Corinth and Alcorn County, working from public meetings, agency records and interviews with the people involved. Contact him at editor@alcornnewsms.com with news tips or corrections. For a correction, include the article link and supporting source material.
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