5397456
Tropical Storm Arthur Causes Partial Closure of Refuge

Tropical Storm Arthur moved through southeast Louisiana on Wednesday, leaving significant damage across southeast Louisiana. In its aftermath, widespread rain is expected along the Gulf Coast for the remainder of the week.

At the Big Branch Marsh Refuge, the Lemieux Center sustained significant damage, including a pine tree that fell through the pavilion and numerous downed trees and branches along the trails.

For the safety of visitors, this location will remain closed until further notice while we assess the full extent of the damage and begin cleanup efforts. We urge all visitors to use caution

For more information, please contact the refuge headquarters at 985/882-2000.

Tropical Storm Arthur Damage
Image Details
Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a natural treasure on the northshore of Lake Pontchartrain north of New Orleans, LA. The refuge has over 18,000 acres of freshwater and brackish marsh, bald cypress-tupelo forest, bayous, hardwood forest hammocks, and pine savannah. The refuge's marshes provide habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl, are critical spawning and nursery habitat for a number of fresh and saltwater species of fish, and help buffer local communities from storm surge. Upland habitat on the refuge provides a stopping place for migratory songbirds and a home for the threatened red-cockaded woodpecker.

Visit Us

The refuge's piney woods, bayous, and marshes are a haven for wildlife and a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, hiking, paddling, bird watching, nature photography, guided tours, and educational programs are ways you can enjoy the refuge. The Bayou Lacombe Visitor Center in Lacombe is a gateway to exploring the Southeast Louisiana Refuges, with exhibits, maps and a nature store. The Visitor Center is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Hunting

Fishing

Birding

Hiking

Boat Launches 

Location and Contact Information

      Our Species