PSA - Invasive species project planned on three WMAs in Martin and Pike counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 1, 2026) — Portions of three wildlife management areas (WMA) in Martin and Pike counties will be closed to the public during a two-day window when c​​onditions allow, May 4-8 or May 11-15, 2026, to facilitate an extensive habitat improvement project.

Weather permitting, approximately 2,000 acres within Legacy, Pocahontas and RH Group WMAs will receive selective treatment for invasive plant species, primarily for sericea lespedeza and autumn olive, that displace native flora and degrade wildlife habitat. Officials seek to improve grassland areas by removing or reducing invasive species to improve elk grazing areas.

Project leaders are monitoring short- and long-range weather forecasts and will decide if conditions are favorable to achieve optimal results on the properties and may reschedule, if necessary.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife will announce an update on its website (fw.ky.gov) and X (@kyfishwildlife). Department staff will be on-site to communicate with users and some roads may close temporarily. Access to all other portions of the wildlife management areas will not be affected and will remain open for public use.

Did You Know: Invasive plants, which have established footholds in Kentucky’s fields and forests, can threaten the Commonwealth’s native plants and animals. Preventing new introductions, further spread and additional impacts of invasive species is critical. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife offers resources for landowners. Learn more at Nuisance Species Plans - Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife.​​