The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has delayed closure of the drawdown structure gates on Lake Bistineau to facilitate repairs to the spillway outflow area. The gates were originally scheduled to close on November 30, 2017, but repair contracts have not been awarded. 
 
The area immediately south of the Lake Bistineau spillway needs to be dry in order for work to be completed in the outflow area. To prevent water levels from rising and exceeding the normal pool stage during the construction, the gates will not be closed until necessary equipment and personnel are in place. 
 
A gate closure date has not been determined, but will likely occur in early January.  The department will make a formal announcement once an exact date is known.
 
The management of Lake Bistineau and its aquatic resources is the responsibility of LDWF. DOTD is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Lake Bistineau dam, spillway and control structures.  
 
The current LDWF Lake Bistineau Management Plan can be viewed at:  http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/fishing/waterbody-management-plans-inland . 
 
For additional information regarding the drawdown, contact Jeff Sibley, LDWF Biologist Manager, at  jsibley@wlf.la.gov  or (318) 371-3066.