Ducks Unlimited recently completed the first phase of a project to enhance waterfowl habitat on Howard Miller Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Issaquena County, Mississippi. This WMA supports large numbers of wintering waterfowl and is a popular public hunting area.

Originally a rice-field complex, this WMA is now managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for wintering waterfowl. In the first phase of this project, 30 dilapidated water-control structures were replaced to improve wetland management capabilities. When the second phase of this project is complete, a total of 2,160 acres of prime waterfowl habitat will be enhanced.

In nearby Sharkey County, DU also recently completed restoration work on Twin Oaks WMA. Engineers enhanced five moist-soil units and constructed a well and pipeline to supply water to these units and four adjacent green-tree reservoirs. These improvements will not only improve habitat for wintering waterfowl but also increase public hunting opportunities and access on this popular WMA.