The 17 locks and dams provided large, stable pools of water. Areas behind and around dikes, revetments and other control structures provided perfect habitat and fish spawning areas. The McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System is an outstanding example of the improvement of nature through human action. Over the years those structures that created the reliable navigation channel silted in and closed off some of the best fish and wildlife habitat. Swann understands the consequences.
Fresh water is the lifeblood of good habitat.
For several years, the Corps has heard concerns from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, anglers and naturalists about the declining habitat along the river. Now the Corps is listening to their ideas to fix the problem. Just by listening to them, we realized there were some things we could do in conjunction with this study that would improve wildlife habitat. Carman has been traveling the river across the state of Arkansas from Fort Smith on the western edge to the state s southeast corner at Lock 2, just upstream from the Mississippi River. He along with volunteers from hunting, fishing and wildlife organizations have spent hours compiling a list of areas where measures could be taken to improve fish habitat and spawning, as well as wetland areas that benefit waterfowl.