Madison, IN — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is examining a variety of activities at Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge under its mandatory 10 or 15-year re-evaluating time periods. Currently, the Service is evaluating the following activities on the refuge under the Compatibility Determination process: hunting, fishing, scientific research by third parties, tree harvesting (noncommercial), wildlife observation/photography, commercial recording and environmental education/interpretation.
The purpose of Big Oaks Refuge is for the development, advancement, management, conservation, and protection of fish and wildlife resources and to conserve fish, wildlife, and plants, including those which are listed as endangered or threatened.
The Service would like to know what you think about these refuge uses being evaluated. It is especially interested in information you have or studies you are aware of regarding the effects of such uses. Compatibility determinations have been drafted and are available for public review and comment. All comments received within 15 days following the date of this notice (January 29 to February 13) will be considered in the final determinations. We hope to make a final decision on these uses after further evaluation following the closure of the comment period.
To request a copy of the compatibility determinations, to learn the final decision regarding these proposed uses, or for more information, contact Refuge Manager, Dr. Joe Robb, Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge by mail at 1661 W JPG Niblo Road, Madison, IN 47250; by telephone at 812-273-0783; or by email at Joe_Robb@fws.gov. Copies of the draft compatibility determinations are also available at the refuge office at the above address.
