Lake Bistineau Remains Closed Due to High Water

Lake Bistineau is still closed to recreational boat traffic because of high water, but lakeside residents may notice boats on the lake beginning Monday.

"We've been informed by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries that contract workers will be spraying the giant Salvinia on the lake beginning Monday," said Bossier Parish Administrator Bill Altimus in a news release. "People will know who they are, because they will be using air boats."

Altimus said agents will also be patrolling on the lake in boats that are clearly market. They, along with spraying contractors, will be travelling slowly to avoid creating troublesome wakes near already-flooded areas.

Bossier and Webster parishes closed the lake June 7 when water levels began rising. The National Weather Service reports Bistineau remains above flood stage and is rising as water from Loggy Bayou flows into the lower lake.

Altimus said the lake is closed because of the potential for damage to property from boat lakes. During a briefing today at the Bossier Office of Emergency Preparedness, parish officials reported the Crier's Camp Road into Lake Bistineau had been closed due to high water. The lake is expected to crest today at 145.3 feet, about three feet above flood stage.

"We're checking on the water levels throughout the parish constantly and we will be monitoring Lake Bistineau each day," Altimus said. "We will lift the boat ban on the lake as soon as we're convinced it's safe to do so."