Soda Lake
Soda Lake WMA was historically a seasonal lake that flooded during late winter and spring. A similar water regime continues today, but only the bluffs located on the western edge of the WMA remain above flood level. The lower elevation habitat is a broken woodland consisting of willow, cottonwood, ash, hackberry, and overcup oak. Due to annual flooding, the understory is very sparse and contains rattanvine, peppervine, dewberry, blackberry, and greenbriar. Open areas support wild millet, smartweed, and several species of grasses.
The rugged escarpment of Twelve Mile Bayou on the western edge of the area supports a diverse, old growth forest. Approximately 35 acres in size, this forest is a unique natural upland plant community of shortleaf pine, sweetgum, as well as white, post, cherrybark, shumard, and cow oak. The dominant trees are estimated to be 100 to 130 years old. Two rare plants, American alumroot (Heuchra americana L.) and lowland brittle fern (Cystopteris protrusa Bernh.) have been found growing on the north and east-facing bluffs.
LDWF manages Soda Lake WMA primarily as a refuge for migrant waterfowl and songbirds. The WMA also provides year-round habitat for a diverse population of resident songbirds, mammals, and insects. Together, LDWF and the Caddo Levee District maintain a series of moist soil impoundments that provide waterfowl and bird watching opportunities.
Activities and Amenities
Hunting and trapping: Archery only hunting is allowed for white-tailed deer. Small game and waterfowl hunting are available under special conditions. See regulations for details. Trapping is permitted
Fishing and boating: A public boat launch is accessible through the WMA parking area on the south side of LA Hwy 169. The launch allows convenient access for boating and fishing on the upper end of Twelve Mile Bayou. See regulations for details.
Other: Birding, wildlife viewing.
Two rare plants, American alumroot (Heuchra americana L.) and lowland brittle fern (Cystopteris protrusa Bernh.) have been found growing on the north and east-facing bluffs.
Acreage
2,391
Owner/Manager
Caddo Levee District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Directions
Soda Lake WMA is located about 15 miles north of Shreveport, approximately 1 mile east of LA Hwy 1. You can access the southern end of the area from LA Hwy 173 west of Twelve Mile Bayou and the northern end from LA Hwy 169 east of Twelve Mile Bayou. While one short ATV/ UTV trail exists on the portion east of Twelve Mile Bayou, significant interior access is limited to walk-in and bicycles only.