White-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, yellow-breasted chat, screech owl, eastern diamond-backed rattlesnake, gray tree frog. What do these species have in common? They can be seen, or heard, in Three Rivers WMA. Every stage of the three growing cycle provides habitat for a myriad of wildlife species while offering abundant hunting opportunities.

Three Rivers WMA offers 450,000 acres of public recreation for Oklahoma sportsmen through a cooperative agreement between the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conversation and the landowner, Weyerhaeuser Company.

Weyerhaeuser, a world leader among forest products providers, has owned the land since 1969, when it acquired the former Dierks Forests, Inc. Following the acquisition, Weyerhaeuser allowed recreational access to its Oklahoma holdings under the company's "open lands" policy. This policy benefited many Oklahomans, as well as outdoors enthusiasts from other states, underscoring the appreciation Weyerhaeuser and its employees have for the outdoors.

Three Rivers WMA includes some of Southeast Oklahoma's most scenic forest lands It is characterized by a diversity of forest habitats that includes a maze of pure, sparkling streams, including portions of the Glover River - Oklahoma's last free-flowing river.

HUNTING & FISHING AT THREE RIVERS WMA

* White-tailed Deer - With its isolated ridges, secluded hollows and remote highland benches, Three Rivers WMA has all the ingredients necessary for producing trophy white-tailed deer. Best of all, the vastness of the area makes it possible for hunters to find a special spot where they can hunt in peace and solitude. To increase your deer hunting prospects at Three Rivers WMA, pay special attention to hardwood-studded creek bottoms, as well as oak and hickory flats.

* Wild Turkey - Turkey hunting is a time-honored tradition in the Kiamichi Mountains, and Three Rivers WA offers some of the area's best opportunities. The rugged terrain makes fro some challenging hunting, but calling up a wary old tom among the dogwoods and redbuds on a crisp mountain morning will produce some of your most memorable experiences. Look for roosting sign over creeks, rivers and ponds, and then select a hunting spot.

* Small Game - A staggering diversity of habitats and forest structures makes Three Rivers WMA a paradise for small-game hunters. Gray and fox squirrels are plentiful throughout the area, especially in areas dominated by hardwoods. Also, young pine clearcuts offer some of the best bobwhite quail habitat in southeastern Oklahoma. These areas are also prime habitat for rabbits. If you're looking for a place to pass on your hunting heritage to your children, Three Rivers WMA, with its bountiful small game populations, can provide the foundation for a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment.

* Fishing - The Glover River, Oklahoma's last major free-flowing river, offers outstanding fishing for smallmouth bass, spotted bass, rock bass and the beautiful longear sunfish. Excellent fishing can also be found in the tributaries of the Mountain Fork and Little rivers, especially in clear, deep pools. Finding that special spot may require a long trip off the beaten path, but your hard work will be rewarded with quality fishing in an authentic wilderness environment.

For only $16 per year, $25 for non-residents, the Three Rivers WMA Land Access Fee (Permit) is like owning the key to your own private hunting lease. For such a small fee, you can have a wonderful place to pass on Oklahoma's hunting heritage to your children. As an extra bonus, the Land Access Fee (Permit) is also honored at nearby Honobia Creek WMA. (Oklahoma residents under 18 on the first day of the current calendar year, and 64 years or older are exempt from the permit).