The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has scheduled a drawdown of Black and Clear Lake (in neighboring Natchitoches Parish) for giant salvinia control, organic reduction and fish habitat improvement. The drawdown is designed to reduce the further expansion of giant salvinia as summer and early fall temperatures promote maximum growth.
The water control structure is scheduled to be opened on August 2, 2021, and the lake should dewater at a rate of 3-6 inches per day depending on the Red River Pool 3 water level. The lake will be lowered to a maximum drawdown water level of approximately 4 feet below normal pool stage (95 Mean Sea Level). The Black and Clear Lake control gates are scheduled to be closed on January 31, 2022, to allow the lake to refill for early spring recreational activities.
During the drawdown, an estimated 7,000-8,000 acres of water will remain open in areas of Black and Clear Lake. Boaters may still access the lake from either Black Lake Resort and Campground or Chandler’s Camp ramps located on the North side of the Hwy 9 bridge. Boaters are also advised to use caution when on the water, as numerous obstructions that are normally not seen will be present.
This action is a necessary component of LDWF’s integrated management plan to control overabundant aquatic vegetation growth and to improve access for recreational activities. An annual cycle of high and low water fluctuation can provide beneficial effects, similar to a natural overflow lake system.
The current LDWF Black and Clear Lake Vegetation Control Plan can be viewed below.
To report an issue or typo with this article – CLICK HERE
