TELLICO LAKE WMA
Chota Refuge Unit

Purpose: To enhance 35 acres of flooded agricultural crops on the Chota Unit through construction of an exterior levee and installation of several water control structures. In addition, a pump and power unit was purchased to provide a dependable source of water during fall migration. The objective was to create a waterfowl impoundment adjacent to Tellico Lake, because shallow wetlands are rare in this region. This project will primarily benefit mallards and Canada geese. The area is managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to provide quality wintering habitat for waterfowl.

Landside view of Tellico Lake WMA Chota Refuge Unit
Location: The project is located on Tellico Lake in Monroe County approximately 10 miles southeast of Vonore, TN.

Acres Impacted: 35 acres

Habitat Types: Moist-soil Wetlands
Flooded Agricultural Crops

Partners: Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Timeline: Construction was completed in December 1988

DU Contact:

Tim Willis
Regional Biologist
193 Business Park Drive, Suite E
Ridgeland, MS 39157
601.956.1936
twillis@ducks.org