The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development would like to update the public on the status of the Vernon Lake Dam and planned repairs to damages sustained during Hurricane Harvey.
 
Although the management gate is currently open, the lake water surface has risen to within 5 feet of pool stage as a result of heavy rainfall over the last two months. In order to safely complete repair work, the lake water surface will need to be lowered to a minimum of 20 feet below pool stage (elevation 225 feet).
 
DOTD has awarded a contract to Merrick, LLC to repair the damages. On February 1, 2019, a pre-construction conference was held with the contractor. The Notice to Proceed has been issued for March 6, 2019, followed by a 30-calendar-day assembly period.
 
The timeframe to complete the necessary repairs is highly dependent upon the weather conditions over the next few months and will likely extend into early summer of 2019.   Upon completion, the management gate will be closed and the lake allowed to refill to pool stage. Additional updates will be provided as the project progresses.   
 
Anacoco Lake, which is located downstream of Vernon Lake, is near pool stage. The intent for Anacoco Lake is to keep the management gate closed and the lake near pool stage throughout this process.
 
Questions regarding this notice may be directed to Randall Duffey at (337) 238-6406, Brad Sticker at (318) 561-5280 or Jonathan Lachney at (318) 561-5103.