Public Access Threatened at Big Oaks Refuge

Concerns are mounting that Indiana's largest federal wildlife refuge, Big Oaks, established 25 years ago, may be closed to the public. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is in discussions with the U.S. Army regarding the memorandum of agreement that governs the refuge, located across Jefferson, Jennings, and Ripley counties.

Members of the Big Oaks Conservation Society are worried that a cancellation of the agreement could result in the loss of public access to the refuge, which was created from the former Jefferson Proving Ground. While a USFWS spokesperson stated that continued public use is a priority, regional leadership acknowledged challenges in meeting agreement obligations.

The refuge, spanning 50,000 acres, was established in 2000 after the Army ceased munitions testing. Despite ongoing public access, visitors must attend a briefing due to the possibility of unexploded ordnance. The Indiana National Guard still uses a portion for bombing practice.

Negotiations could lead to a new agreement, potentially involving alternative management partners or adjusted responsibilities. While closing public access is considered a last resort, elected officials and conservationists are closely monitoring the situation and advocating for continued funding and access to the refuge.