PantherSwamp_LowerTwist_02.jpg

A transformative conservation effort is set to enhance waterfowl habitats across 700 acres in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (LMAV), thanks to a $1 million investment supported by the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund (MOSTF). This initiative will breathe new life into critical wetlands at Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and Howard Miller Wildlife Management Area (WMA)—two key havens for migrating waterfowl.

At Panther Swamp NWR, 300 acres will undergo restoration to improve habitat quality, while Howard Miller WMA will see enhancements across 400 acres. The project includes constructing new waterfowl management impoundments, upgrading infrastructure, grading land, reinforcing berms, installing wells and pumps, and improving road access. These improvements will increase foraging and roosting opportunities for waterfowl and benefit a diverse range of wetland-dependent wildlife.

Led by Ducks Unlimited (DU), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), this initiative reflects a powerful partnership dedicated to conserving Mississippi’s natural resources. By leveraging funding from the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund, this project underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing public lands, supporting wildlife, and ensuring a vibrant outdoor legacy for future generations.

"This project represents a significant step forward for waterfowl conservation in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley," said Nick Biasini, Ducks Unlimited Manager of Conservation Programs. "By restoring and enhancing critical wetland habitats at Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and Howard Miller Wildlife Management Area, we’re improving conditions for migrating waterfowl and supporting a wide array of wetland-dependent species. This work exemplifies the power of collaboration and strategic investment in conservation, ensuring these landscapes remain vital and productive."

The Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund was established in 2022 to transform conservation and outdoor recreation across Mississippi. Projects supported by the MOSTF help improve water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. Click here to see a full list of the 2025 awards.