The majority of Pearl River Wildlife Management Area will close tomorrow (Dec. 16) because of flooding, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries announced today.
The only exception to his is south of U.S. Highway 90, where waterfowl hunting will be allowed as scheduled beginning Dec. 19.
The Pearl River is expected to exceed 16.5 feet at the Pearl River gauge by Wednesday (Dec. 16) due to recent heavy rains. When this water level is reached, the WMA will be closed to all hunting except those waterfowl hunters south of U.S. Highway 90.
All shooting-range activities also will be suspended.
When the water level reaches 16.5 feet, the gate at Old U.S. Hwy. 11 will close for safety and to reduce harassment of wildlife stranded along the road.
The public is asked to avoid the temptation to sightsee along the roadway as this adds to the already stressful conditions for wildlife.
Hunting may resume when water levels drop below 16.5 feet at the Pearl River gauge, but the gate at Old U.S. Hwy. 11 will remain closed until roads are safe for vehicles.
For information on when the rifle range will reopen call 985-643-3938 or visit www.honeyisland.org. For information about Pearl River WMA, call 225-765-2360 or visit cdavis@wlf.la.gov.
