Purpose: To restore and enhance 1,535 acres of critical waterfowl habitat on OKeefe WMA through installation of several water control structures, construction of terrace levees, and installation of diesel pumps and water distribution system. This project provides valuable foraging habitat to migrating and wintering waterfowl along the Tallahatchie River. Mallards, gadwall, green-winged teal, wood ducks, and American wigeon will be the primary waterfowl species that benefit from this project. This project will be managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to maintain high quality bottomland hardwoods and flooded agricultural habitats for waterfowl, while providing public hunting opportunities.

Location: Approximately 6 miles south of Lambert, MS (Quitman County)

Acres Impacted: 1,535 acres

Habitat Type: Forested Wetlands (910 acres)
Moist-soil Habitats (250 acres)
Flooded Agricultural Fields (375 acres)

Partners: USFWS North American Wetlands Conservation Council
Wetlands America Trust, Inc.
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks
Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Timeline: Construction was initiated in summer 2003 and is now complete