JACKSON – Pascagoula River and Ward Bayou Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) encompass over 50,000 acres along the Pascagoula River in George and Jackson counties. The Pascagoula River basin is the largest drainage in the southeast region of the state. Over the past five months, the WMAs have experienced constant cycles of flooding which have lead to numerous road and hunting season closures. Roads and hunting seasons are 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. Visitors are encouraged to review 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.

Infrastructure improvements are planned for both Pascagoula River and Ward Bayou WMAs during the upcoming summer months. Improvements on the areas will consist of road and trail widening, renovation of low water crossings, installation of bridges, and graveling of roads. The bulk of improvements on Pascagoula River WMA will take place in the area known as Big Swamp, which lies west of the river. 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.

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.