The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) advised that low water levels in a few popular State-managed hunting areas may cause access issues for waterfowl hunters. Duck hunters remain welcome to hunt, but a lack of water and thick vegetation in certain areas of the Perch River, Upper and Lower Lakes, and Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) may present challenges.

• Upper and Lower Lakes WMA: Waters in this WMA have been impacted by drought conditions and levels are approximately one foot lower than in 2018. Upper and Lower Lakes WMA is located about two miles west of the village of Canton along state Route 68 in St. Lawrence County.

• Wilson Hill WMA: Water levels at Wilson Hill WMA vary depending on the pool. The East Pool underwent an aggressive drawdown to coincide with the natural drought this past summer, and the vegetation response has been good. Water levels in the portion of the East Pool designated as Hunting Zone A are about 1⁄2 foot lower than normal, with abundant vegetation in the flooded portions. The remainder of the East Pool remains classified as Refuge. Water levels in the West Pool and Bradford Pool are both slightly lower than they were in fall 2019, but higher than the long-term average. Pumping is underway at Nichols Pool to maintain average water

levels. The accessible hunting blind at Nichols Pool is available for the duck season. Wilson Hill WMA is located in northern St. Lawrence County, approximately six miles west of the village of Massena off State Route 37.

• Perch River WMA: Even with the recent installation of water control structures, waters will be difficult to access due to drought conditions. Waters are one to two feet lower than typical during the hunting season. Perch River WMA is in the Jefferson County towns of Brownville, Orleans, and Pamelia. The area can be accessed from state Route 12, Allen Road, Buckminster Road, and Vaadi Road.

For more information on places to hunt in Region 6 and hunting regulations, call 315-785-2263.