The public is invited to have a voice in the future of two area national wildlife refuges at a public meeting to be held on Thursday, June 29, 2006, at the Old Metairie Branch of the Jefferson Parish Public Library, at 2350 Metairie Road, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. The meeting is designed to gather input in advance of the preparation of 15-year Comprehensive Conservation Plans (CCPs) for Breton and Delta National Wildlife Refuges.Comments will be accepted on all issues related to the management of the refuges, including hunting, fishing and other public use, oil and gas exploration, biological research priorities, refuge expansion and other related topics. Following an introduction to the CCP process, attendees will be invited to visit each of several subject-area discussion groups, where comments will be recorded by moderators.
Those not able to attend the June 29 meeting may also submit comments in writing to: Southeast Louisiana Refuges, 61389 Hwy. 434, Lacombe, LA 70445, attn. Charlotte Parker, or by email to: charlotte_parker@fws.gov. All comments must be received by July 21, 2006. For more information, contact the refuge headquarters at 985-882-2000.
Comments from the public will be used in subsequent stages of the CCP planning process, leading to development of a draft plan outlining proposed alternatives for the management of the refuge over the next 15-year period. The draft plan is expected to be available for further public review and comment by March 2008.
