General DNR News

Paddling Trail at Bayou Courtableau will open November 10th

BATON ROUGE—
Mark your calendars and don’t miss opening ceremonies for the first paddling trail in the Atchafalaya Basin at Bayou Courtableau, Sunday, November 10th at noon in Krotz Springs.

“This is only the beginning of a network of trails that will cover the entire basin. It will bring a world of adventure for paddlers that enjoy the Atchafalaya Basin, noted James Proctor, a project manager with the state Department of Natural Resources’ Atchafalaya Basin Program (ABP). Proctor began working with the department about ten months ago and is coordinating a volunteer group called the Atchafalaya Water Trails for the operation and maintenance of the trail system in the basin. Proctor said that with assistance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and with donations from area businesses, a kiosk and trail markers were provided for the thirteen-mile trail.

According to ABP Director Sandra Thompson, paddling trails throughout the basin will be a part of the ABP Master Plan. Daytime adventurers and overnight campers can look to more trails, specific trail markers, maps, guidebooks and camping platforms in the future.

Bayou Courtableau Trail Event at Spillway Road in Krotz Springs, LA
10 a.m. - 12 Noon - Free gumbo and music provided

At Noon- Ribbon-cutting of trail with officials
Start four-hour paddling trip along the bayou

Directions to Levee Landing: Take Hwy 190 west to Krotz Springs. Turn left (south) onto Spillway Road. Go approximately one mile south and the landing is located on the lefthand side.

Contact DNR’s Atchafalaya Basin Program at 225-342-0560 or James Proctor at 337-739-2410 for more information.