The Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV) is a vital area for wintering mallards, wood ducks, gadwall and green-winged teal in North America and a top priority for Ducks Unlimited. A project on the Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area near Monroe, LA will enhance 1,250 acres of wildlife habitat in the MAV for waterfowl and other wetland-dependent wildlife. This area of the Russell Sage WMA is called the Kennedy Tract.

Through a partnership with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the North American Wetlands Conservation Council, DU will make the Kennedy Tract one of the most intensely managed public land waterfowl habitats in the state. The $1.4-million project will improve infrastructure to allow more uniform and efficient water management across the tract. Ultimately, these improvements will increase plant diversity and provide greater foraging and loafing opportunities for migratory birds.

The Russell Sage WMA is one of the largest remaining tracts of bottomland hardwood forest in the MAV. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has developed 13 waterfowl management units on the Russell Sage WMA. Located about 7 miles east of Monroe, this area provides tremendous public hunting opportunities near the metro area.