Boat launch should benefit wetlands

St. Charles Parish harbors some of the greatest wetland areas of the world. But so far, most residents can’t take full advantage of them.

That is a good reason for the parish to invest in a class A boat launch on U. S. 90 just east of the Davis Pond Freshwater Diversion canal which it voted to do Monday night. It is expected to include five boat launch ramps as well as other faclities for the enjoyment of the public, such as volleyball courts and a place for the local farmers’ market to set up shop.

From that launch, a person with a boat could easily access Lake Cataouatchie which has become one of the best fresh water fishing spots around since the construction of the diversion. And just beyond is Lake Salvador which has long been a favorite spot for fresh and salt water fishing. But this would also offer easy access to the entire Barataria Basin which is the best fish estuary in southeast Louisiana.

Add to this the unadorned natural aspects of the area, including its beauty and tranquility which is a lot for the public to enjoy. It will be like opening a bigger door into the parish of plenty. In addition to the economic aspects of attracting tourists, it will allow our residents to truly enjoy their homeland more.

Access to the basin has been provided by a private launch at Pier I and a public launch in Bayou Des Allemands near U. S.90. They have served many people but t he new launch will attract so many more who deserve a closer look at the wonderful coastline we are trying to preserve.

This new launch and a better one the parish wants to construct in Bayou Des Allemands will not only add to our title of Sportsman Paradise but will secure our status as one of the nation’s premier water wonderlands.

And it will make people more aware of why we want to preserve the Louisiana coast so much.