Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge will re-open to the public today.
The Refuge has been closed since January 11 due to flooding conditions and backwater levels. Visitors are encouraged to use caution considering floodwaters may have damaged roadways and facilities and contributed to pools of standing or stagnant water.
Panther Swamp NWR is increasing its law enforcement presence in the affected areas to promote public safety and protect natural resources. Opening the Refuge allows visitors to participate in hunting and fishing activities as published in the 2015-2016 Hunting and Fishing Regulations. Visitors are required to adhere to all signs and notifications as they may indicate impassable areas or areas of safety concern. Any persons found in violation will be ticketed.
Panther Swamp NWR encompasses over 40,000 acres. Its expansive bottomland hardwood forests, cypress-tupelo sloughs, and meandering bayous represent some of the best remaining examples of the historically predominant habitat types that once characterized the entire Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley. In addition to providing resting and feeding areas for over 100,000 wintering waterfowl annually, the refuge also provides habitat for 200 species of neotropical migratory songbirds. Resident species making their home among the woodlands, sloughs, and reforested areas include the American alligator, white-tailed deer, swamp rabbit, wild turkey, squirrel, and various small fur-bearers.
The Theodore Roosevelt NWR Complex Headquarters office remains open and is located to the Big Twist Area on Panther Swamp NWR, east of the intersection of Hwy 149 and Hwy 16. Office hours are Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 4:00pm. For any questions regarding general information or closures call 662.836.3004. More information about Panther Swamp NWR can be found at
http://www.fws.gov/refuge/panther_swamp and on
https://www.facebook.com/TRComplex?ref=hl .
