Richland Creek WMA Gets a Hand from DU

D ucks Unlimited and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) are working to improve wetland habitat on Richland Creek Wildlife Management Area’s South Unit.

The first phase of the project was completed in July 2017, and the second phase began in November. Together, the two phases will enhance more than 400 acres of wetland habitat. The project is being funded by TPWD with State Migratory Game Bird Stamp funds, and this area is included in their annual public hunting program.

Richland Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA) lies almost entirely within the Trinity River floodplain. As such, the WMA is subject to periodic and prolonged flooding. The enhancement work will improve management infrastructure so that staff can optimize habitat for wetland dependent wildlife, including waterfowl.

Numerous marshes and sloughs provide habitat for migrating and wintering waterfowl, wading birds and shore birds. In addition, the area’s bottomland hardwood forests serve as nesting and brood rearing habitat for many species of neotropical birds and wood ducks.

TPWD manages Richland Creek WMA to provide quality consumptive and non-consumptive recreational opportunities for the public. It sits on the southeast side of the Richland Chambers Reservoir about an hour and a half south of Dallas.

Goose Island State Park Re-Opened

Four months after Harvey struck the coast of Texas, Goose Island State Park will reopen part of the site to day use visitors. On Jan. 1, a portion of the island will be available for park goers to recreate and enjoy in the new year.

“Park staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly with contractors to clean up and repair the park so we can welcome visitors back to the island,” said Robbie Merritt, superintendent of Goose Island State Park.

Gates will open at 8 a.m. and close at 10:00 PM daily. Visitors will have access to the boat ramp, day use picnic area and the west end of the island to fish, picnic and birdwatch.

The park will also be hosting two guided First Day Hike programs at 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to celebrate the reopening of the park.

The east end of the island, the fishing pier and the wooded camping areas will remain closed until repairs are completed. All overnight camping at the park also remains closed until further notice.

For reopening statuses of all parks impacted by Harvey, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.

—from TPWD

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