Tentative Project Timeline (pending funding availability and weather conditions)

MARCH 2025

• Begin gradual drawdown of Impoundments 12/13. During this time, there could be increases in wildlife activity along the perimeter ditches, in ponded areas across the impoundment, and near water control structures.
• Deep flood Impoundment 16 to provide alternate breeding habitat for purple gallinule, least bittern, and other birds and continued wildlife viewing viewing along the Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive.

JUNE - JULY 2025

• Restore storm damaged photo blind while water levels are minimal.
• Mechanically remove dense vegetation and moist soil from around photo blind to provide open water conditions and improved wildlife photography opportunities.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2025

• Implement herbicide treatment to control cattail, cutgrass, alligator weed, water hyacinth, and other invasive species invasive species
  An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
  
  Learn more about invasive species .
• All herbicide to be used is foliar active to ensure no damage to surrounding desirable species such as live oaks and other native trees.
• Herbicide application will be done within all labeled safety guidelines and USFWS Pesticide Use Proposal System regulations.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2026

• Conduct a prescribed burn prescribed burn
  A prescribed burn is the controlled use of fire to restore wildlife habitat, reduce wildfire risk, or achieve other habitat management goals. We have been using prescribed burn techniques to improve species habitat since the 1930s.
  
  Learn more about prescribed burn in Impoundments 12/13 to further reduce undesirable vegetation and reduce the amount of burnable fuels.
• Immediately following the prescribed burn, reflood impoundments 12/13 and maintain indefinitely.