Ducks Unlimited completed installation of a new water control structure for Unit 4 at Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge in Cameron Parish in September 2018. Replacing an old, deteriorated structure that has been in use for the past 55 years, the new structure will efficiently and effectively manage hydrologic conditions in the 5,030-acre management unit.

The new structure allows Rockefeller Refuge staff to manage salinity and water levels to control habitat conditions in the unit throughout the year, enabling staff to provide ideal habitat conditions for waterfowl and other wetland dependent birds. It also protects and enhances the marshes in the unit by reducing salinity impacts.

Rockefeller Refuge is open to the public for recreational fishing, crabbing, shrimping, and other activities such as bird watching and sight-seeing. To enhance public use, this project features approximately 340 linear feet of fishing piers installed on the inside of the water-control structure. The piers will be a great place to catch blue crabs, cast net for shrimp, or catch fish.

Total project cost was approximately $1.5 million. Partners on this project include Ducks Unlimited, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, North American Wetlands Conservation Council, Phillips 66, Coastal Conservation Associations Building Conservation Trust, and Axalta Coating Systems.