The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Transportation, has slated a four-foot drawdown for Iatt Lake set to begin on or about July 14. This measure comes as part of an effort to counteract the spread of giant salvinia, an invasive aquatic plant threatening the lake's ecosystem. According to the announcement made by the LDWF, the planned drawdown aligns with a resolution from the Grant Parish Police Jury, passed on June 12, requesting to limit such reductions in water level at the lake.
Those who frequent Iatt Lake for boating activities should note that although the Iatt Lake dam launch will remain accessible, hidden obstacles, usually invisible below the surface, might become potential hazards as the water level drops. Boaters are advised to tread carefully during this period. The lake is expected to dewater at three to four inches per day until it achieves the target of four feet below pool stage.
Drawdowns, a procedure familiar to locals and to LDWF, are not guaranteed success stories; their efficacy sways with the pendulum of weather. The LDWF states, “Drawdowns are timed to take advantage of prevalent late summer, fall, and winter weather patterns. If favorable weather patterns do not occur, the effectiveness of the drawdown is reduced.” Hence, while some drawdowns have historically proven beneficial, others lack in the desired outcome.
Maintaining the adjusted water level, considering no unforeseen circumstances interfere, the plan is to hold the lake four feet below pool stage until October 6.
