Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge is located four miles west of the Mississippi River in Crittenden County and is protected from the river by the river levee. The refuge literally stands as a wildlife oasis in an agricultural sea. An excellent diversity of habitat exists comprised of mainly agricultural land, bottomland, hardwood forest, upland forest, open water and flooded cypress/willow swamp. Thirty small field impoundments have been developed for waterfowl in the agricultural land. Because of its strategic location in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway and the diverse habitat, the refuge is a prime wintering area for migratory waterfowl and a major stopping place for migrating warblers. Bald eagles, great blue herons, great egrets and anhingas have taken up nesting on the refuge. Due to increasing nutrient loads, the lake's fisheries has declined from historical levels, but is still a major attraction to this area.