Agencies
Services
Westside Management Area
A network of levees separates the 3,500-acre bottomland area into several smaller and more manageable compartments. Habitat management consists of planting crops such as corn, milo, millet and winter wheat, and promoting the growth of natural wetland vegetation (moist soil management).
Manipulation of water levels plays an important part in management of the area. By manipulating spring water levels, moist soil plants, such as wild millet, can grow in several permanent moist soil areas and in some fields planted to annual crops the previous year. In the fall, flooding the leveed areas provides migrating waterfowl access to the food. Access this area at Cox's Bridge, Hitogi Access Area, or parking lots at Subimpoundments 1, 2 or 3.
Eastside Management Area
The 2,500-acre area located on the east side of the Kaskaskia River provides opportunities for waterfowl, upland and forest game hunters. The area is blessed with numerous natural wetlands and a large tract of timber. Additionally, several fields are planted to wildlife food plants. Fields also are planted to provide dove hunting opportunities. Access is by way of two parking lots at Eckert's Woods, and the Hitogi and Cox's Bridge access fields.
Flooded Dead Timber Area
Creek channels, islands and standing dead timber scattered throughout the water area provide numerous opportunities for hunting. Access to both the Flooded Dead Timber Area and Open Water Area is by way of Boulder, Cox's Bridge, East Fork Creek, Keyesport, North Fork Creek, Patoka and Tamalco access areas.
Open Water Area
Open water south and north of the B&N Railroad provides opportunities for scenic boating, birdwatching and hunting. The area provides resting and roosting space, which encourages a greater waterfowl population. Access to both the Flooded Dead Timber Area and Open Water Area is by way of Boulder, Cox's Bridge, East Fork Creek, Keyesport, North Fork Creek, Patoka and Tamalco access areas.