By Geoff Roberts, KDFWR
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources manages tracts of public land throughout the state for recreational use. These Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are largely managed for hunting and fishing, although many of them also offer opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. In total, the 88 WMAs that stretch the commonwealth from Paducah to Pikeville and many stops between account for over 500,000 acres of public land.
Kentucky’s WMAs are likely not foreign to many sportswomen and men throughout the state as an estimated 19% of Kentucky hunters utilize these lands during various hunting seasons. Those individuals who do not hunt or fish may not be as familiar with the opportunities that these areas present and are encouraged to explore the possibilities at their local WMA or plan a trip to a management area of interest.
While virtually all of Kentucky’s WMAs can be explored on foot, nearly 60 offer hiking opportunities with defined trails, many of which occur in conjunction with Kentucky State Parks. An additional 15 management areas offer specific wildlife viewing opportunities for those hoping to catch a glimpse of land mammals, waterfowl, songbirds, and birds of prey. Many WMAs have a blend of terrain and habitat types, offering the chance to explore woodland, grassland, and wetland areas with varying degrees of ruggedness.
Fish and Wildlife staff implement specific management strategies for different WMAs. Some offer wildlife food plots and pollinator plantings while others serve as important habitat for migratory songbirds and waterfowl.
A listing of Kentucky’s WMAs, including detailed descriptions and pertinent info for visitors, can be found on the KDFWR website at www.fw.ky.gov. Specific features, including hiking trails, wildlife viewing, horseback trails, and picnic areas, can be filtered to allow individuals to search for a specific management area that offers desired amenities. An interactive map allows for easy and strategic planning.
Outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts may also be interested in Kentucky Wild, a KDFWR program that supports conservation of Kentucky’s native species not hunted, fished for, or trapped. Kentucky Wild is a membership-based program in which funds from paying members contribute to conservation projects aimed at helping vulnerable wildlife including songbirds, raptors, freshwater mussels, bats, and pollinators. More information can be found at https://app.fw.ky.gov/kywild/.
Geoff is a program coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources who loves sharing his passion for wildlife and the outdoors with others. A lifelong Kentuckian, Geoff enjoys birding, hiking, bass fishing, and exploring the state’s many outdoor opportunities in his free time.