WINONA — The heron colony along the dike road between Winona and Wisconsin is off limits to those in boats or on foot through July 13.
The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge began the emergency closure Wednesday because high water is making access easier. Disturbances can make the birds more likely to abandon nests. The colony has more than 800 great blue and great egrets during the nesting season.
The boundary of the 57 acre area closed to entry will be posted with signs in the field.
