The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is advising hunters and fishermen destined for Pass-a-Loutre Wildlife Management Area (WMA) to be aware of an ongoing dredge project on the WMA.
 
The Sawdust Bend Dredge Disposal Project will take place prior to the beginning of waterfowl season this Saturday (Nov. 10) and could continue beyond waterfowl hunting season, which closes at sunset Jan. 20. WMA users should be aware that there will be a 30-inch sediment conveyance pipeline submerged in Pass-a-Loutre and Dennis Pass, reportedly marked with lighted markers.
 
In addition to the pipeline there will be increased boat traffic on the WMA between the Head of Passes to the dredged material disposal area on Dennis Pass (see map for the affected areas).  Additionally, WMA users are cautioned to refrain from utilizing dredge equipment such as pipes, pipeline markers, vessels or any other equipment associated with this project as this poses a safety issue for both the WMA users and dredging contractor.
 
Pass-a-Loutre WMA, which encompasses 115,000 acres, is located at the mouth of the Mississippi River, approximately 10 miles south of Venice in southern Plaquemines Parish. Access is by boat only. For more information, go to http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/wma/2786. 
 
For more information, contact LDWF biologist manager Vaughan McDonald at vmcdonald@wlf.la.gov or 225-765-2708.