Draft compatibility determinations (CD) for two outdoor recreation activities, boating and biking on Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge Complex (Complex) Refuges, are now available for public review and comment for 14 calendar days from May 28, 2026, to June 11, 2026. These activities provide a means of travel and participation in all wildlife-dependent recreation on the nine refuges including hunting and fishing, and wildlife observation.
The documents are available for review in the library section of this webpage. You can find the library tab on the left side of the screen, towards the bottom of the menu. Please let us know if you need the documents in an alternative format. Please submit any comments by June 11, 2026, to Brett Moule, Project Leader, Theodore Roosevelt NWR Complex by email at [email protected]. Concerns expressed during the public comment period may be addressed in the final CD.
The FWS is seeking public review and comment on the proposed opening or expansion of hunting and/or fishing. The public is invited to review the draft documents, including draft plan(s), compatibility determination(s) as appropriate, and environmental compliance documentation. The draft documents are available through the Federal Register docket number: FWS–HQ–NWRS–2026–1223.
The comment period on the proposed hunting and sport fishing regulations across Service-managed lands and waters will stay open for 30-days from May 27 through June 26, 2026. Please submit your comments directly through the Federal Register.
The comment period on the Environmental Assessment for actions at this field station will stay open for 30 days from May 27 through June 27, 2026. Please submit your comments via email to [email protected] with the name of the refuge or hatchery in the subject line.
Visit Us
Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge welcomes visitors with hunting, fishing, photography, birding and other outdoor recreation activities.
Location and Contact Information
About Us
Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1980 via the Migratory Bird Conservation Act. Land acquisition began with the initial purchase of 803 acres in September of that year. The refuge is located in the Yazoo River Basin on the eastern edge of the Mississippi River Valley in Holmes and Leflore counties. Deep water and bottomland hardwoods make Mathews Brake attractive to migratory bird species throughout the year. The brake’s permanent water serves as a valuable resting area for large numbers of migrating ducks during fall and winter.
What We Do
Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the National Wildlife Refuge System. At Mathews Break National Wildlife Refuge, several different types of management techniques are utilized to provide habitat for migratory birds and to manage various types of wetlands.
Our Organization
Our Species
Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of wildlife species associated with its habitat. Some of the habitats include bottomland hardwood forest, open water, and seasonal and permanent wetlands.
Our Library
Our digital library is a one stop shop for refuge documents, brochures, and coloring books.
