Louisiana became the 18th state of the Union in 1812. It forms the northern shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico. Its unique natural resources reflect the ecologically important lakes and streams, including the Mississippi River, Red River and White Lake. Louisiana's lowest point sits below sea level at 8 feet. Wetlands line its miles of shoreline, providing important wildlife habitat. Their importance is reflected in the state's flag, which depicts a white pelican in the nest with her three chicks.
The Mississippi River Delta Basin is located at the southeasternmost tip of Louisiana at the mouth of the Mississippi River. Ecologically, this site is important for its coastal marshes, which comprise more than 60 percent of its area. Because of its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, these coastal wetlands include a variety of fresh, intermediate, and brackish-saline aquatic resources. They provide important flood protection for the Louisiana southern coasts.
The Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge is located in east-central Louisiana. It is an important wintering area for the nation's migrating waterfowl and other migratory birds, with more than 175 different species sighted within its boundaries. The over 25,000-acre site provides flood protection through its extensive network of wetlands. Because of its importance to migratory birds, the Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge was designated a Globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy.
The Kisatchie National Forest comprises more than 604,000 acres of managed public lands. The site manages several habitat types, including bayous, bald cypress groves and old-growth pine forest. Kisatchie National Forest, Louisiana's only national forest, provides numerous recreation opportunities, including hunting, hiking, wildlife viewing and canoeing
The coastal areas of Louisiana include more than 15,000 miles of shoreline. The coasts provide homes for more than 47 percent of the state's population, making their value hard to overestimate. The areas are vital to the Louisiana economy, taking just over 20 percent of the nation's total commercial fishing catch. Hunting and wildlife watching add another $1.4 billion dollars in state revenue, according to 2006 figures.
The 700-mile Creole Nature Trail gives visitors a glimpse in the unique natural resources of Louisiana. Located in the southwestern corner of the state, the trail meanders through wetland ecosystems, marshes, and rice and soybean fields. The land provides habitat for many of Louisiana's unique plants and wildlife, including the alligator. Like the Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge, the location is an important wintering ground for migratory birds using the Central and Mississippi Flyways. More than 300 species of birds have been documented in this area.
