House Resolution No. by Representative Butler urges the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to return oversight authority of Cocodrie Lake to the Cocodrie Lake Game and Fish Commission. This request stems from the historical context in which the Commission's powers were transferred to the Department in 1981, following the construction of a dam that significantly altered water levels and the surrounding ecosystem. The residents of the area, who rely on the lake for various economic activities such as farming, fishing, and hunting, have expressed concerns that the current management structure limits their input and negatively impacts their livelihoods.
The Cocodrie Lake Game and Fish Commission, which includes appointees from local parishes, was established to address the needs of these residents and has been actively holding public meetings. The resolution emphasizes that restoring authority to the Commission would enhance collaboration with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and other stakeholders, ultimately leading to better management of the lake's water levels and health. The House of Representatives calls for the Department to take action in this regard and requests that a copy of the resolution be sent to the Department's secretary.