SHIAWASSEE NWR Auto Tour Closure
By: Steve Kahl, Refuge Manager
The Shiawassee NWR Wildlife Drive is scheduled to be closed from September 8, 2014 through October 4, 2014. This closure is necessary to facilitate the efforts of a Maintenance Action Team (MAT) of National Wildlife Refuge staff members from around the Midwest Region, who will be removing a 4600’ long dike that currently impacts floodplain functions of the Ferguson Bayou and the Crystal Bayou. The material removed will be used to relocate the east dike of Pool 1A, which is currently be damaged by erosion.
The relocation of this dike will secure the long term value of the emergent marsh habitat in Pool 1A, and in addition, restore 11.5 acres of floodplain wetland. The Refuge Open House event will take place as planned during this period, but vehicle access will not be permitted this year, and areas where the MAT are working will be closed to the public. The Wild Goose Chase and Youth Deer Hunt will also take place as scheduled.
By: Steve Kahl, Refuge Manager
The Shiawassee NWR Wildlife Drive is scheduled to be closed from September 8, 2014 through October 4, 2014. This closure is necessary to facilitate the efforts of a Maintenance Action Team (MAT) of National Wildlife Refuge staff members from around the Midwest Region, who will be removing a 4600’ long dike that currently impacts floodplain functions of the Ferguson Bayou and the Crystal Bayou. The material removed will be used to relocate the east dike of Pool 1A, which is currently be damaged by erosion.
The relocation of this dike will secure the long term value of the emergent marsh habitat in Pool 1A, and in addition, restore 11.5 acres of floodplain wetland. The Refuge Open House event will take place as planned during this period, but vehicle access will not be permitted this year, and areas where the MAT are working will be closed to the public. The Wild Goose Chase and Youth Deer Hunt will also take place as scheduled.