What We Do
E.F.H. ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge manages its intricate network of marshes, tidal creeks, forested uplands and wetlands, fields, wetlands and impoundments to support the myriad of plants and wildlife.
Planning – The Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin NWR Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) describes the role the refuge will play in support of the mission of the Refuge System. Direction and implementation include foremost habitat and fish and wildlife conservation, with wildlife-dependent recreation allowed and encouraged while compatible with the purposes of the refuge.
Habitat Restoration– Moist soil management is used to control water levels to promote wetland plant growth and support small fish, crustaceans and insects by mimicking wet and dry season cycles. Structures known as rice trunks control water flow between tidal creeks or rivers and managed wetland impoundments. These managed wetland units support a myriad of wildlife species such as waterfowl, bald eagles, alligators, wood storks, wading birds and numerous other species.
Agriculture – The refuge plants approximately 10 acres of field with a winter wheat mix to meet foraging needs of geese and other waterfowl during winter months.
Fire Management - Prescribed burning is used in impoundments, forested upland areas and abandoned fields to remove undesirable vegetation and produce seed crops, grasses and other food sources for deer, turkey and other bird species. Mechanical disking in fields is practiced to control overgrowth and enhance wildlife movement and habitat diversity.
Invasive Species – The refuge impoundments are managed to control phragmities and in the more upland areas, measures are taken to control the Chinese tallow. Mechanical and applied applications are used to manage these invasive species .
Feral hogs destroy habitat and compete with native wildlife for food sources. Trapping and annual hunts on the refuge are utilized to control the feral hog population.
Trapping – Trapping of other nuisance animals is employed to control excessive depredation of native wildlife and to prevent habitat destruction. Nuisance animals compete for food sources and negatively alter wetlands and landscape transition areas.
Cultural Resources – The headquarters or, Grove Plantation House, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places by former owners to ensure its protection and preservation. Any repairs and maintenance on the house are done in accordance with Register-listed historic properties. On-going stabilization work continues on the historic overseer’s house on Jehossee Island with other archeological sites preserved. The refuge restricts public access to Jehossee Island and offers limited tours to small research and university groups.
Hunting - Hunting is an important management tool to control and promote healthy wildlife populations while offering a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime. Deer and waterfowl hunts are scheduled annually in accordance with state and federal regulations.
Fishing - The ACE Basin estuarine system provides habitat and as a spawning and nursery ground for anadromous fish as well as other important species including the largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Walk-in bank fishing with hook and line is allowed in refuge impoundments, canals and river access locations during the time period of April through August.
Education – Education programs for local grade schools are conducted, in concert, with the Friends of Coastal South Carolina. Partnerships with historical associations, resource agencies and organizations, and colleges provide opportunities for environmental studies and special tours on the refuge.