Effective immediately, Lake Bistineau is open to recreational boat traffic, according to police jury officials in Bossier and Webster parishes.
Officials had closed the lake to boat traffic Sunday, June 7, after the lake had risen above flood stage. Although the water level on the lake remains high, the lake has begun to recede.
Although the lake will be open, boaters are urged to motor slowly near camps and structures. Boat wakes could potentially cause damage to boat houses, piers and other waterfront property until the lake returns to its normal level.
Boaters should be very careful if operating their watercraft on the lake at night. Officials say the possibility of debris in the boating lanes due to the high water and current could present a boating hazard.
Individuals are also urged to exercise caution when launching and reloading their boats. Boat launches on the lake will still be under higher than usual water and the launch area may not be clearly defined.
