Friends of Black Bayou is an award-winning, non-profit community organization that supports the protection and enhancement of Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge located in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana. FoBB came into existence in August 1997 with a core group of dedicated supporters who cared about the new Refuge and dreamed big. In a very short time, members began to see their dreams taking shape.

The century-old planter’s home was renovated and is now the Visitors’ Center. In 2004, FoBB was named the top Refuge Friends Group in the country. And this was just the beginning!

FoBB sponsors an annual Fall Celebration with free activities for kids, food, exhibitors, and lots of fun activities. 

Educational opportunities are a top priority for FoBB. Curriculum materials were developed, and learning about wildlife became fun and convenient from

• the pier,
• observation deck,
• nature trails,
• arboretum,
• interactive displays inside the Visitors’ Center.

​Conservation Learning Center opened in October 2005, provides spectacular live native wildlife exhibits and a well-equipped classroom.

Art is a part of nature, too. Photographers and other artists are able to observe wildlife from the comfort of the photo blind, the wildlife pier (currently being completely rebuilt!), and the observation deck. Kids of all ages enjoy experiencing nature from a paved walkway or a raised boardwalk. And grownups appreciate the fact that the Refuge is free, fun, not far from Monroe, and best of all--educational!

Throughout the year, events are scheduled at the Refuge, and the public is invited to visit any time--whether there is a special event or not. Nature is always here.

As a reminder .... this is a wildlife refuge, so remember your outdoor safety skills. Do NOT feed any animal on the refuge.

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Friends of Black Bayou Lake NWR

You can also call the Visitor Center at (318) 387-1114 for information about any program at the refuge. The volunteer answering the phone will be able to answer your questions, or can refer you to the person who can answer them.

Nature is always happening at the refuge, but special events also provide education, conservation enlightenment, fun, and entertainment. Visit. Learn.  Enjoy.

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Facebook links:
Friends of Black Bayou Group (FoBB) on Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/groups/55588469461/

National Fish & Wildlife Service's Facebook Page for BBLNWR: ​https://www.facebook.com/BlackBayouLakeNWR/

2020 Photo Contest Announcement>>

2020-July Coronavirus NOTICE:
The Visitor Center and Conservation Learning Center are currently CLOSED to the public.  Nature trails, boat launch, arboretum, and outdoor activities are **OPEN** as usual for the public.  Be safe and visit nature. ​

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Friends of Black Bayou, Inc., Statement on
Inclusion and Diversity
Friends of Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge is working toward being a truly inclusive, diverse organization. We reject racism in all forms and embrace cultural and economic diversity. We have much progress still to make to reflect the diversity of our area. Although we are directing our outreach to better reflect diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), we understand we need to continue to improve and therefore commit to examining all activities from a DEI perspective.
We want all to feel welcome and safe when they visit the Refuge. We all need its quiet, its beauty, and its peace. We invite your ideas as to how to make nature’s solace available to all people, regardless of color or ethnicity. 

Black Bayou Pollinator Garden

Donate to the Pollinator Garden Project

​Want to receive our newsletter? Send an email to friendsofblackbayou@gmail.com with the subject line SUBSCRIBE.

Other Information Weblinks:

• Louisiana Master Naturalist Northeast Chapter
• 2017-2018 Black Bayou Public Use Regulations (Hunting Guide)
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region
• Black Bayou Lake NWR Comprehensive Conservation Plan​