Cane Creek Lake to Close Temporarily for Nutria Removal

Cane Creek Lake to Close Temporarily for Nutria Removal

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Outdoor enthusiasts planning a trip to Cane Creek Lake should note: the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) will temporarily close access to the lake from February 10-12 to remove invasive nutria.

Located within Cane Creek State Park, this scenic lake is a favorite spot for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Anglers frequent its waters for crappie, bass, and catfish, while paddlers navigate through towering cypress trees, often spotting herons, turtles, and other native wildlife.

Why the Closure?

The AGFC will address an ongoing issue with nutria, an invasive rodent species that threatens the lake’s ecosystem. These large, semi-aquatic rodents burrow into levees and shorelines, causing erosion and habitat destruction. By removing them, AGFC aims to protect the integrity of the lake and its surrounding environment.

Ryan Mozisek, regional fisheries supervisor in the AGFC’s Monticello Office, said the control effort will require the discharge of firearms, so the lake must be closed for public safety concerns.

“Trapping is not efficient enough to remove the number of nutria we need to take away from the flooded habitat of the lake in a timely manner,” Mozisek said. “We waited until waterfowl season was over to prevent displacing any hunters who may have used the lake.”

Mozisek said February is the best time to schedule the nutria removals because the vegetation has died back, making the animals easier to spot, and occurs at a time when fewer anglers will be displaced

Jackalope

“It’s been more than 10 years since the last nutria removal effort, and the population has gotten large enough to pose a considerable threat to the levee that makes up the north side of the lake,” Mozisek said. “Like many invasive species, we’ll likely never completely eradicate nutria from the area, but we can control it if we take steps like this to prevent habitat destruction and damage to the lake’s infrastructure.”

What’s Affected?

  • For safety reasons, all boating and fishing access will be restricted during the closure.
  • Land-based activities, including hiking and biking along Cane Creek’s scenic trails, will remain open for visitors to enjoy.
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The AGFC encourages visitors to plan their trips accordingly and appreciates their patience as they work to protect and preserve Cane Creek Lake for future outdoor adventures.

For more updates, visit www.agfc.com or follow the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission on social media.

Arkansas Cycling & Fitness.

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