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CLARKSDALE, Miss., April 1, 2007 — The Yazoo-Mississippi Delta Levee Board (YMDLB) is currently assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by installing culverts at the portion of Panther Swamp located in Humphreys County.
Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is one of seven refuges in the Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Established in 1978, Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 38,697 acres in Yazoo and Humphreys Counties. Included in those acres is one of the largest blocks (21,000 acres) of bottomland forest in the lower Mississippi River alluvial floodplain. The upland areas or ridges often crest at no more than one foot above swamp areas, and contain nuttall, willow and water oaks and other species while overcup oak, bitter pecan and ash dominate the transition zone from swamp to upland. Additional habitat types consist of reforested and agricultural areas.
“With its close proximity to the state capital, Jackson, the refuge provides a variety of recreational opportunities and a positive economic impact to local communities,” said Ralph Sewell, YMDLB commissioner representing Humphreys County.
In addition to providing resting and feeding areas for over 100,000 wintering waterfowl annually, the refuge also provides habitat for 200 species of neotropical migratory songbirds. Resident species making their home among the woodlands, sloughs and reforested areas include the American alligator, white-tail deer, otter, swamp rabbit, wild turkey, squirrel and other various small fur-bearers such as mink and raccoon.
Although limited archaeological evidence exists about the earliest inhabitants of this area, early Native Americans probably hunted, fished and even farmed much of the area now included in the boundaries of Panther Swamp. In the late 18th and 19th centuries, the Louisiana Black Bear was common. A site near Onward, Mississippi, was made famous in 1902 when President Theodore Roosevelt came to Mississippi to hunt black bears with the legendary guide and ex-slave Holt Collier. Their story led to the creation of the “Teddy Bear,” now Mississippi’s official state toy.
All refuge permit sales are conducted from the headquarters of the Theodore Roosevelt NWR Complex. Permits may be purchased in person or through regular mail. Complex Hunting and Fishing Regulations are generally available in August each year and may be obtained at any refuge office on the complex.
Including the levees along the Whittington Channel, approximately 30 miles of gravel roads are open on the refuge for most of the year. Additionally, some portions of the refuge can be accessed from Highway 149W and the Satartia Road. These routes offer opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, or simply a quiet drive in a beautiful natural setting. Other areas are accessible by foot or small boat.
For more information visit www.fws.gov/pantherswamp.
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