The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will initiate an immediate drawdown on the Larto-Saline Lake Complex to accommodate construction activities related to the replacement of the Cross Bayou weir.
The water level in the lake will lowered four feet and be maintained at 33 feet mean sea level for the duration of the weir replacement.
The Larto Lake Dam structure will be closed and the lake will be allowed to refill immediately following construction completion, which is scheduled for September 2014.
The Larto-Saline Lake complex encompasses portions of Avoyelles, Catahoula, LaSalle and Rapides parishes. The Cross Bayou weir is one of several structures throughout the complex that maintains the water level in the lakes. A portion of the weir collapsed in December 2012 after heavy rainfall, and temporary repairs were conducted until permanent structural repairs could be completed.
Although the lake will not be closed to fishing, caution is advised of boaters during the low water period.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.
For press inquires, contact Ashley Wethey at awethey@wlf.la.gov or (225) 765-2396.