Habitat added to Norfolk

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Campground and Habitat Upgrades on Norfork Lake - Bennett's Bayou

 

Early last month, biologists in north central Arkansas partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and AGFC staff from across the state to enhance fish habitat in the Bennett’s Bayou arm of Norfork Lake. Our focus was twofold: improving campground aesthetics at the USACE Gamaliel Campground while enhancing shoreline fishing opportunities, and refreshing existing underwater brush piles in the area.

The joint effort began at the campground, where we, USACE, selectively cut trees to open up the canopy around several campsites. This work not only improves the overall camping experience, but also gives campers much easier access to shoreline angling, including a brush pile in close proximity to the bank (NF 0117).

A mix of cedars and hardwoods from the campground and the surrounding area were cut and pulled out into the lake, then sunk on existing brush pile sites in the Bennett’s Bayou Arm. The dense cedar branches provide immediate, tight cover for baitfish and ambush predators, while the sturdy hardwoods will offer long-lasting structure for fish like crappie, bass, and Walleye.

By refreshing these existing sites with fresh woody debris, we ensure they remain highly productive ecosystems and should provide valuable cover for the upcoming crappie spawn. If you don’t already have the existing brush pile coordinates on your unit, you can find downloadable coordinates for the brush pile locations on our Fish Attractors page. This project highlights the continued importance of inter-agency teamwork in keeping our lakes healthy and maintaining Arkansas as a premier fishing destination.

Norfork Habitat Project Map


Sinking a Hardwood Tree in Norfork Lake


Sinking a Cedar Tree in Norfork Lake