Ben's Creek WMA lease will not be renewed

Release Date: 05/18/2012

May 18, 2012 -- The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is alerting the public that property currently leased for public use as Ben’s Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA) will no longer be part of LDWF’s WMA program as of June 30, 2012.

The property, located in Washington Parish and owned by the Weyerhaeuser Corporation, has been managed by LDWF since 1987.

“After a prolonged negotiation, LDWF has determined that renewal of the property lease is not financially feasible,” said LDWF Secretary Robert Barham. “Beginning July 1, Weyerhaeuser will once again assume full management of the property. While this loss of the WMA is regretful, we appreciate the past generosity of Weyerhaeuser in providing these lands for public use."

LDWF’s WMA program provides many quality outdoor recreation opportunities for the public on nearly 1.5 million acres around the state. These properties are owned by LDWF or leased to LDWF free of charge. Activities available include hunting and fishing, plus boating, camping, hiking, bird watching and nature photography.

For more information, contact Kenny Ribbeck at 225-765-2942 or kribbeck@wlf.la.gov .

LDWF is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana's abundant natural resources. Visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.