The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service invites the public to give their ideas about a proposed management plan for Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansas, June 3, 1999, at 7:00 p.m., in the Elementary School in Horatio, Arkansas. The proposed plan would guide the management of the refuge over the next fifteen years.
Located 55 miles north of the city of Texarkana in Sevier County, Arkansas, the 27,300-acre Pond Creek Refuge protects the largest remaining tract of bottomland hardwoods along the Little River.
"We want Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge to be a model refuge; one that protects and manages biological diversity of the enjoyment and benefit of present and future generations," said Jim Johnson. project leader of Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Pond Creek is one of three refuges included in the Complex.
The proposed plan will benefit waterfowl and songbirds; threatened and endangered species; resident wildlife; and provide opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreation and environmental education.
As required by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, an overriding concern reflected in the proposed plan is that wildlife has first priority and that recreation and other uses are allowed as long as they are compatible with wildlife conservation.
Those who cannot attend the public meeting may obtain a copy of the proposed plan by writing
Jim Johnson, Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge Complex, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Post Office Box 1157, 5531 Highway 82 West, Crossett, AR 71635; (870) 364-3167.
The public is encouraged to review the plan and send in their written comments to the above address. Comments are needed by June 30, 1999 to be considered in the preparation of the final plan.
