Purpose: To enhance 860 acres of waterfowl habitat on Ballard WMA through construction of levees and installation of several water control structures. Ballard WMA lies near the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Historically, the area was covered with bottomland hardwoods, but most of the timber was converted to agricultural production. Purchased in the 1950's, Ballard WMA was essential in providing habitat to the Mississippi Valley population of Canada geese. The enhanced area will be managed for moist-soil habitats, although rotation of agricultural crops will be incorporated. This project is managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources to provide quality wintering habitat for waterfowl and additional public hunting opportunities.

Location: The project is located in Ballard County approximately 30 miles west of Paducah, KY.

Acres Impacted: 860 acres

Habitat Types: Moist-soil Wetlands
Flooded Agricultural Crops

Partners: Kentucky Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Resources
Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Timeline: Construction was completed in September 1999

DU Contact:

Chris Cole
Director of Conservation Programs
ccole@ducks.org