We Collaborate: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries thanks ANPP

We recently received this letter of thanks from state botanist Brian Sean Early:

"On behalf of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Acadiana Native Plant Project for your generous support letter for the Pourteau Tract Longleaf Pine Flatwood Savanna and Flatwood Pond Project. This project afforded the acquisition and permanent protection of the 426-acre tract in Allen Parish, now the Flatwoods Savanna Wildlife Management Area (WMA). LDWF acquired the property this April. Restoration planning is underway and the Flatwoods Savanna WMA is set to open to the public in the summer of 2025.

This property represents an irreplaceable piece of Louisiana’s natural heritage. With your support, we are now able to preserve a landscape of extraordinary ecological value; comprised of old-growth longleaf pine savannas, near-pristine flatwood ponds, and initiate the restoration on 206-acres, while ensuring it remains accessible for public enjoyment and sustainable land use.

The conservation of the Flatwoods Savanna WMA will not only protect two imperiled natural

communities, but will also enhance flood attenuation, bolster native wildlife populations, improve soil health, and support carbon sequestration. With this acquisition, we are also creating critical landscape connectivity with adjacent conservation areas, forming approximately a 700-acre corridor of protected habitat.

This project stands as a powerful example of how conservation and multi-use lands can thrive together to provide long-term ecological and societal benefits, particularly in underserved and vulnerable communities such as in Allen Parish. Thank you for your support letter and commitment to conservation. Your support helped ensure a lasting legacy of stewardship and resilience for the people and wildlife of Louisiana.

With sincere appreciation,

Brian Sean Early

State Plant Community Ecologist

Wildlife Diversity Program

LA Department of Wildlife and Fisheries