Committee backs resolution to restore local commission authority over Cocodrie Lake

The House Natural Resources Committee on June 3 reported House Resolution 274 favorably after Representative Butler described longstanding local management of Cocodrie Lake and asked the committee to urge the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to restore general-health authority for the Cocodrie Lake Game and Fish Commission.

Representative Richard (RB) Butler told the committee Cocodrie Lake (sometimes spelled Cocodrie) and the associated dam flooded roughly 7,000 acres of private property when built in 1965; residents formed a commission to steward lake levels and fishery health. Butler said the commission exercised authority until that authority was moved to the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in 1981, and that local residents want their board's authority restored so landowners and users can participate in lake management decisions.

Committee members expressed support for returning decision-making authority to local residents and their appointed commission, and Representative Carrier moved favorably on the resolution. The committee adopted the motion without recorded objection and reported HR 274 favorable.

Butler told the committee he has sought administrative engagement with Wildlife and Fisheries but has not resolved the dispute and wants the committee to encourage a negotiated outcome. He asked colleagues to help bring stakeholders together to find a durable local management approach for the lake’s health, water levels and fisheries.

The measure was reported favorable and will proceed to the next stage of legislative consideration.