Description - Surveys have identified the Grand Bay savanna as the last and largest remnant of this formerly prominent wetland pine savanna ecosystem. The Grand Bay area is recognized as a significant Wildlife Resource Area as well as one of the Nature Conservancy's "Last Great Places".
- The Marsh and open water habitats on the southern portion of the refuge support a rich fishery and serve as a wintering area for migratory waterfowl. This refuge also contains the largest expanse of undisturbed wetland pine savanna habitat along the northern Gulf of Mexico.
The primary habitat on the refuge consists of open wet pine savannas and pine flatwoods which are interspersed with poorly drained evergreen bays and pond cypress stands. Estuarine salt marshes are found to the south. When acquisition is complete this refuge should encompass over 16,000 acres.
Surveys using high altitude infrared photography have identified the Grand Bay savanna as the last and largest remnant of this formerly prominent wetland pine savanna ecosystem. The Grand Bay area is recognized as a significant Wildlife Resource Area by the State of Mississippi (Mississippi Protection Planning Committee) as well as one of the Nature Conservancy's "Last Great Places".
Recreation - Public use activities on this refuge such as wildlife observation, environmental education, scientific research, boating, and fishing are permitted when compatible with refuge objectives.
Climate - Mississippi lies mainly in the subtropics. The climate is mild with the coldest months experiencing low temperatures near 40 degrees F. Summer temperatures frequently reach 100 degrees F, with coastal breezes providing cooling relief. Humidity is highest in August and September reaching an average close to 90%. The highest rainfall comes during the spring months, but December and January are wet, too. Expect temperatures in the northeastern region to be somewhat cooler than the rest of the state.
This refuge is located about 10 miles east of Pascagoula, Mississippi, and 20 miles southwest of Mobile, Alabama. The headquarters office is located at the Mississippi Sandhill Crane Refuge.