St. Martin, La., lake drawdown

Based on the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries recommendation, the St. Martin Parish government has scheduled a drawdown for Henderson Lake in St. Martin Parish to manage aquatic vegetation and enhance fisheries habitat. The southern control structure gates will open Aug. 1. The lake will dewater at a rate of 2-to-4 inches a day until it reaches three feet below pool stage. The drawdown gates are scheduled to be closed on Nov. 1 at which time the lake will be allowed to refill. Houseboat owners are encouraged to take necessary precautions as soon as possible. During the drawdown, boaters will be able to access the lake from the private ramps along the southern levee. Boaters should use caution as numerous obstructions will be exposed. In addition to the control of the aquatic vegetation, the drawdown will benefit the lake’s fish population. The dewatering will also improve the spawning habitat by promoting the decomposition and potential drying of organic materials such as leaf litter and submerged vegetation. Herbicide applications will continue during the drawdown period. The Henderson Lake Waterbody Management Plan can be viewed at: www.wlf.louisiana.gov/resources/category/freshwater-inland-fish/inland-waterbody-management-plans.