The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has announced a scheduled drawdown of the Wham Brake Impoundment at Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area (WMA) beginning Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
The drawdown is being conducted to control giant cutgrass (Zizaniopsis miliacea) and to promote the growth of desirable moist-soil vegetation that benefits waterfowl and other wildlife.
Boaters will still be able to access Wham Brake during the drawdown; however, caution is advised, as receding water levels will expose boating hazards.
Following completion of the drawdown, LDWF will conduct an aerial herbicide application to treat approximately 1,000 acres of giant cutgrass within the impoundment. Approximately 60 days after treatment, re-flooding, which is dependent on rainfall, will be initiated.
Russell Sage WMA is actively managed to promote habitat for migrating and wintering waterfowl and other wildlife species as well as provide outdoor recreational opportunities.
Learn more about the Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area.
For additional information, contact Mitch McGee at 318-343-4044 or mmcgee@wlf.la.gov.