The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has just announced a sweeping closure of roads and trails at the Richard K. Yancey Wildlife Management Area. Due to surging waters in nearby rivers, flooding has engulfed much of the sanctuary, leaving only a few paths like Shell, Yakey, Wycoff and Silver Lakes roads accessible as lifelines connecting to state highways that bisect the protected land. Despite this, the LDWF fully expects these thoroughfares to remain open to traffic and visitors.
The wildlife region, a diversely rich habitat for a host of species, ranging from deer to waterfowl, is now at the mercy of the adjacent Red and Mississippi rivers' tides. It is the LDWF's intent, once the waters have to eventually recede, to thoroughly inspect the damage, roll up sleeves, and restore these closed conduits to their former state, welcoming both wildlife and enthusiast alike back into the enclave. Known for its annual spring floods that traditionally yield an abundance of recreational fishing opportunities, the current inundation stands apart as an unwelcome extreme, even here.
Nestled about 35 miles south of Ferriday on Louisiana Highway 15 within lower Concordia Parish, the Richard K. Yancey Wildlife Management Area is a rich mosaic of natural splendor that typically teems with life and activity. Its lands offer lush feeding grounds to game species such as squirrels, rabbits, and a variety of birds, underlining its importance as a haven for both year-round and migratory species.
Visitors hoping to eventually return to Richard K. Yancey WMA are reminded that they will need the appropriate access licenses. LDWF mandates an entry permit, which can include a WMA Access Permit, Senior Hunting/Fishing License, Louisiana Sportsman’s Paradise License, or a Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License. Interested parties can to easily find more information and secure a permit by visiting the LDWF's official website.
Seasonal flooding has closed trails at Richard K. Yancey WMA, but the LDWF confirms that both people and wildlife will return once the waters recede. For more details on the closures, visit the website.
