In answer to Tim King’s letter published Wednesday, the water he is looking for was pumped out by the Wild Cow pumping station.

Early spring (March), the complex level was 7 feet above pool stage and was held there for more than four weeks. I had to boat in and out of Kincade Bayou Road, for it was flooded.

Slowly the water fell until it hit pool stage. Then and only then did Rig Masters (operators of the pumping station) see fit to pull the plug, sucking out 18 inches of water overnight with the complex below pool stage.

The drought of late May through mid-July hit, and that is where we stand. The last rains have helped, but many farmers are pumping out of Scenic River (Cocodrie Bayou), thus lowering the levels even more. The Black River Lake Commission is comprised of farmers, so good luck with the recreation end of the show.

Pumping at proper times would solve most problems without the cost of a control structure and the upkeep. Also, opening gates to let Black River water into Black River Lake and its surrounding areas would introduce polluted water and an invasive species of fish (silver carp), in my opinion.

A meeting with the police jury, Black River Lake Commission Lake St. John Committee, Larto Lake (Catahoula Parish) and without any representatives from Lake Concordia was Monday, July 31.

Nothing was carved in stone, but a public hearing will be in mid-August, so be there with your questions along with mine and many others.

 

Robby Roberts

Vidalia resident