Last week, Lake Martin's boat launch was again open to the public after being closed for months. Today, we hear an interim agreement has been reached that will keep access to the lake open.
The closure of the launch was a result of the continuing issues concerning access to the area, including lawsuits and disagreements. The family that owns the property where the launch is located closed it back in March because of liability concerns.
Today, Attorney General Jeff Landry said an agreement has made between the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Chauffe-Hebert Family that will keep open public access to Lake Martin:
"Today, the Chauffe-Hebert Family has come to an agreement with LDWF to keep access to Lake Martin open. I would like to thank the family first and foremost. Their intent all along was to give the public access, but they had legitimate concerns about safety and maintenance of the boat launch and parking lot. LDWF has committed to addressing these concerns. I look forward to working with LDWF to make sensible rules and regulations for Lake Martin that protect access to hunting, fishing, and all other outdoor recreational activities."
St. Martin Parish President Chester Cedars said he was glad to hear about the AG's announcement.
"I'm very pleased that Secretary Montouchet with Wildlife and Fisheries actively pursued resolution of this matter, and I'm pleased that an interim agreement has been reached," Cedars said. "St. Martin Parish will continue to work with Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries and any other person, firm or governmental entity to protect Lake Martin and keep it open for public use without compromise to any rights of any landowners.
I understand all the issues that any party had in this matter."
