The refuge was established in August of 1915 by Executive Order of President Woodrow Wilson to serve as an inviolate sanctuary, reserve, and breeding ground for native and migratory birds. It is one of the nation’s oldest refuges and is 11,038 acres in size.
Big Lake NWR Closed Monday, February 10th through Friday, February 14th, 2025.

The refuge will be closed to daytime public access on Monday, February 10th through Friday, February 14th, 2025. With favorable weather, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services (USDA, APHIS, WS), in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will be conducting aerial gunning operations aimed at reducing feral hog populations on the federal and private lands.

Aerial operations are scheduled to begin February 10th and continue through February 14th. Public safety during the flights is the primary concern for the temporary closures. To provide safety for the public and comply with USDA regulations, access will not be allowed during ongoing operations.

Varying weather and site specific conditions will not allow for specific dates of the closures. The dates allow some flexibility to take advantage of resources over large contiguous tracts of habitat.

The aerial operations are the result of planning and coordination of multiple partners, condensed into several days of actual operations. The USFWS and USDA APHIS would like to thank the public in advance for their patience and understanding while these activities are underway and apologize for any inconvenience related to the operation.

For additional information concerning the Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge please contact Steven Rimer at (870) 564-2429.

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      Once a free-flowing river system, the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811-12 changed the river into the lake and swamp environment that exists today. Due to the refuge’s location, significant bottomland forest habitat, and abundance of bird life, it was recognized as a globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy in March of 2001. 

      Our Species

      The refuge annually winters several species of waterfowl. Peak numbers in January and February can exceed 200,000 birds. Wood ducks are year-round residents and annually raise approximately 2,500 young on the refuge. Over 225 bird species have been documented on the refuge. Other wildlife to look for are beavers, river otters, raccoons, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, bobcats, and the occasional armadillo.

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