Features

Download and print hunting and fishing permits

Did you know that all plants and wildlife are protected on National Wildlife Refuges unless a specific refuge hunting season allows take?

About the Complex

Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Complex

Since 1996, a 110-acre site in Lacombe, Louisiana, has served as the headquarters facility for eight national wildlife refuges in the southeast region.

Big Branch Marsh is managed as part of the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Complex.

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife, and plants.

What's Happening at the Refuge

• Marsh Restoration Project On Tap

  A marsh restoration project will cause a temporary closure of portions of Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge near Bayou Bonfouca from August 20, 2016 through June 30, 2017. The purpose of the closure is to ensure visitors’ safety.

  Project map and more details here...

• Give Wing to Your Wild Side at Wild Things!

  October 15, 2016

  10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join us at at our Headquarters in Lacombe for a celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week. Build a birdhouse, paddle a canoe, fish for prizes in our casting pond, see live animals. Live music, food available to purchase. This event is FREE!

  More about Wild Things

• It’s Always a Good Time to Visit a National Wildlife Refuge

  

  If you're looking for something to do, get involved with one of our special events.

  Find out what's going on at a refuge near you!