Lavaca Rio Ranch in Jackson County is transforming rice fields into rich wetlands, teaming up with federal and state partners to revive wildlife habitats and elevate Texas duck-hunting traditions.
At Lavaca Rio Ranch in Jackson County, Texas, duck hunting has transformed into a remarkable conservation achievement.
Originally a cattle ranch and rice farm, the 5,500-acre property has transformed into a flourishing sanctuary for ducks and a variety of wildlife, a change achieved through nearly ten years of partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. By implementing prescribed burns, managing grazing, creating food plots, and constructing wetlands, the ranch has reshaped its landscape into a sanctuary for more than 50 wildlife species, such as deer, turkeys, roseate spoonbills, mottled ducks, and even nesting bald eagles.
Ranch Manager Brent Friedrichs attributes the revival to the efforts in wetland restoration. “Seeing thousands of ducks at times brings a wonderful sense of joy,” he remarked. “It feels as though you contributed in a meaningful way to restoring something.” With assistance in both technical and financial aspects from the program, the ranch built permanent levees and water control structures that facilitate strategic flooding, replicating the conditions of natural prairie potholes. This habitat is crucial for migratory waterfowl, such as mottled and whistling ducks, enhancing hunting opportunities while safeguarding biodiversity.
The initiative is a component of the larger Texas Prairie Wetlands Project, which commenced in 1991 through a collaboration with Ducks Unlimited, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and the USDA. So far, more than 100,000 acres of wetlands have been restored through this initiative, contributing up to 16% of all freshwater along the Texas coast each year.
Friedrichs highlights the importance of conservation rather than convenience, stating, “It can make hunting harder, but it makes it better for the species.” Through sustainable land practices and collaborative support from federal and state agencies, Lavaca Rio Ranch exemplifies the integration of hunting tradition with wildlife stewardship for the benefit of future generations.
