Visitors to the Santee National Wildlife Refuge near Summerton may find portions of Wildlife Drive closed during the next two months while water-control structures are being upgraded on the Cuddo Unit.
Water levels on the unit are manipulated seasonally to provide habitat and a food sources for migratory birds, including waterfowl. The water-control structures can be managed to hold or release water as needed.
Work on the structures has been underway over the last year, and it’s in the final stages as fall approaches.
In addition to periodic closing of Wildlife Drive, road projects and impoundment projects are taking place on the bicycle route on the Cuddo Unit, as well as an impoundment project on the Bluff Unit beyond Wright’s Bluff natural Trail. The areas may be closed as needed while construction is under way, according to refuge manager Marc Epstein.
“Habitat management is an integral part of managing a national wildlife refuge effectively, and these upgrades will help us to do just that,” said Epstein, who said other areas of the refuge will not be impacted by the upgrades, and hunting seasons will not be affected.
For questions about the refuge, call 803-478-2217 or visit www.fws.gov/santee.
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