ST. MARTIN PARISH — St. Martin Parish Government is trying to work out a deal to keep the Lake Martin boat launch open.
The boat launch is privately owned, but it's widely used by the public.
The owners are planning to close the boat launch March 1 unless a deal can be reached.
Closing the boat launch will limit access to the lake for boats and kayaks.
"Once the dock is closed, we have no way to launch our boats," said Bryce Fuselier. "We really have no place to operate out of. It's unfortunate we won't be able to have a business."
Fuselier uses the privately-owned boat launch for his swamp tour business.
"It's going to affect a lot of people because we have a lot of tourists that come here," explained Fuselier. "Unfortunately, if they do close the boat launch, we won't be able to enjoy it anymore."
The condition of the property is the issue. The gravel lot is full of potholes, and the dock has seen better days.
Although many people frequent the space, the family that owns the property say they don't get any help maintaining it, and unless that happens, they'll have to close it off.
"With all the fencing off and the 'no trespassing' signs that have been placed here, it's going to get to a point where people are going to stop visiting," said Fuselier.
