Work to remove a log jam south of Pools Bluff has caused the closure of areas of the Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge.

Project Leader Glenn Constant for the Baton Rouge Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office said crews are currently preparing to put machinery in the water that will remove the logs, which not only restrict the flow of water, but also make the Pearl River difficult and dangerous to navigate.

Constant estimates the log jam is about 10 yards in size, but did say it’s large enough to see on Google Maps.

While machinery is staging up, Constant said that the river stage is currently too high to start work. He expects the river will be at a level where work can take place by the weekend.

A press release from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service states that the closure is expected to last until the end of the month. The closures are not expected to negatively affect archery season in October, the release states.

Closures will include the northern end of the Bogue Chitto in Louisiana, and parts of the Pearl River.

When complete, Constant said that the river will benefit by the improved water flow by alleviating sediment issues. Wildlife such as the Gulf sturgeon will be able to reach habitats and the hazardous nature of boat navigation will also be alleviated by the work.

The cost to remove the debris is estimated to be $150,000 and will be completed by the end of the month, contingent on river levels, Constant said.

Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge Deputy Project Leader Pon Dixson said when the work is complete, it will improve access to the river for everyone.