It is composed of 15,000 acres (6,100 ha) of pine flatwoods, oak rides and coastal marsh.

This diverse habitat is an example of the natural coastline of Lake Pontchartrain surrounded by fast developing communities.

The third zone has a water level that is slightly below the marsh floor and the predominant plants are wiregrass and spike rush.

Endangered wildlife in the refuge are red-cockaded woodpecker, bald eagle and brown pelican.

Discarded Christmas trees placed in these fences slow wave action, trap sediments, and combat erosion.