Mississippi wildlife officials recommend that landowners continue holding water on managed wetlands even after the duck hunting season ends. The goal is to support migratory birds still in the state and those passing through on their way north, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.
Officials suggest maintaining water in moist-soil wetlands and areas planned for mid- or late-season crops. Conversely, flooded bottomland hardwood forests should be drained earlier to allow roots to dry in preparation for the upcoming growing season.
Holding water until spring or early summer can also benefit habitat management. It can suppress unwanted plants before desirable vegetation begins to grow and provide soil moisture for next season’s waterfowl foods, officials said.
The department urges landowners to plan ahead before draining water at the end of the season. For more information, MDWFP Waterfowl Coordinator Houston Havens discusses the importance of maintaining water post-season in a video available on YouTube.
Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HNRonSCnE8.
