For Immediate Release
February 1, 2010

Contact: Red River Waterway Commission
(318) 352-7446

High Water Temporarily Closes Boat Launches on Red River

Natchitoches, Louisiana … The public boat launching ramps (operated by the Red River Waterway Commission) on the Red River are closed effective today, February 1, 2010. Recent rainfall has resulted in a significant rise in the river and is expected to continue throughout the week. As a result, the docks, which are a vital part of safely launching a boat into the river, are under water. Launching a boat into the swift current, with floating debris, is not recommended during this period of high water.

The Red River is not closed to boat traffic. Boaters may want to contact the private marinas on the Red River to discuss launch conditions prior to arrival. The recreation areas will remain open, where possible; however, the boat launching lanes will be closed. We regret any inconvenience this may cause to boaters and commercial fishermen wishing to utilize these facilities to access the Red River. The boat launches will be re-opened as soon as conditions permit safe use by the public.

For more information regarding the status of the boat ramps, visit the Red River Waterway Commission at www.redriverwaterway.com.

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