At the Hog Island Gully canal ahead you will see various water control structures. The refuge's ability to control the movement of water is the most important key to effective marsh management. Managers also build marshes in areas where humans, hurricanes, or over-eating by nutria have destroyed them. Managers use dredge spoil from the Calcasieu Ship Channel to build levees and low barriers called terraces which slow wave action. This allows the water to become clear so that wetland plants can grow; thereby creating a new marsh in what had been an open area. Fire is another major marsh management tool during dry periods in order to remove dead vegetation and stimulate the growth of native plants that benefit wildlife. You may see people fishing, crabbing or shrimping at the Hog Island Gully structures - all ways of enjoying the natural bounty that is produced through rigorous science-based management on our National Wildlife Refuges. From May to September, you too can easily try your hand at crabbing along the trail. Just stop at any recreation area. Drop a strong cotton string into the water tied to a piece of meat - chicken necks, fish pieces - almost any meat will do - into the water. Have a dip net handy to scoop them once the crab has attached to the meat and you have slowly pulled them up. Throw them into a bucket and you are well on your way to a delicious meal - a gift of the marsh.