Benedictine Wildlife Area Waterfowl Report
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Waterfowl numbers |
There are around 3500 ducks on the refuge, not many using the huntable marshes. Waterfowl Rating - 1 |
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Water level |
We are only pumping the large wetland southwest of the shop, and it's at half the normal compacity. All other marshes are dry due to the ability to hold water. |
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Hunting conditions |
Tough hunting conditions. The wetland habitat is great, but thick, which will make hunting difficult. |
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Expected hunting success |
Fair |
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Comments |
The flood from last year allowed the ground water to push up through the bottom of the wetlands and essentially put numerous holes in them, and now the water drains out faster than it goes in. The larger wetland southeast of the main parking area may be the only good water to hunt. If this is the case, it will crowd the three hunting groups together, so be courteous to your fellow hunter Some of the best wetland vegetation we have ever had, lots of food, but it is so thick it will be difficult to find downed birds. Five foot of vegetation and 1-2 foot of water - not much open water. October 1 through March 31 the area can only be accessed with a special permit obtained through a drawing. The application and drawing will take place online only in 2011. Look for "Special Hunts" on our home page under HUNTING. |