The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today advised that drought conditions have developed at the Northern Montezuma Wildlife Management Area (WMA) due to a lack of precipitation this summer. Waterfowl hunters are advised that some areas may have little to no water for the early part of the season.  

Water levels in several marshes are currently at least one foot below normal conditions. Thick vegetation and low water levels may pose access issues to hunters early in the hunting season. Low water levels in the Seneca River adjacent to the WMA may cause further access issues and are preventing pumping for re-watering marshes. 

Martens Marsh, Guys Marsh, and several of the marshes on Howland Island expected to provide early waterfowl hunting opportunities. Conditions change rapidly at Northern Montezuma this time of year, and rain events may improve water levels or allow for pumping in time for the season opener. 

For more information, contact DEC’s Region 8 Wildlife Office at: 585-226-5380. Additional information on all Rochester/Western Finger Lakes WMAs is available on DEC’s website.