JACKSON – Winter rains bring high waters to Pascagoula River and Ward Bayou Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), which lie within the floodplain of the Pascagoula River in George and Jackson counties. WMA visitors should be aware that roads and hunting seasons may be temporarily closed during high water conditions to minimize road damage and keep visitors safe. Roads are highly susceptible to damage during periods of high water and often require costly repairs. Once flood waters recede, WMA personnel inspect roads and re-open when conditions are suitable. Road maintenance is a year-round job for personnel as the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks strives to provide adequate access for both public activities and management tasks. Visitors are encouraged to review the Pascagoula River and Ward Bayou WMA regulations for more specific information regarding road and hunting season closures. These regulations can be found online at www.mdwfp.com/wma.

All visitors to Pascagoula River WMA and Ward Bayou WMA, except those exempt from purchasing an annual hunting or fishing license, must purchase and carry an annual statewide WMA User Permit. WMA User Permits may be purchased wherever hunting and fishing licenses are sold. Additionally, visitors must complete a Daily Visitor Use Permit before entering the WMAs. These permit cards are available at permit stations located at major entrances to the WMAs.

For more information regarding wildlife management areas in Mississippi, visit our website at www.mdwfp.com/wma or call us at (601) 432-2199. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mdwfp or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDWFPonline.