The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD), announced Tuesday, June 30, 2009 that the public road to Elmer’s Island in Jefferson Parish has been repaired and will be open for the 4th of July holiday weekend, as of Friday, July 3, one half hour before sunrise.
Governor Bobby Jindal said, “Now that there is public road access to Elmer’s Island, more people can experience one of Louisiana’s natural treasures. I encourage folks to make their way to Elmer’s Island to try their hand in some of the best fishing waters in the world or just to experience the great outdoors of Louisiana.”
Boat access to the island, which has been open for public use since Governor Jindal declared the 250-acre island state land in December, will remain an option for public day-use seven days a week.
“This is an important day for fishermen and all outdoor enthusiasts in Louisiana,” said LDWF Secretary Robert Barham. “I am thankful to Secretary William Ankner and all our partners at DOTD who helped make this island accessible in time for the 4th of July holiday weekend. LDWF will need to establish rules for vehicles access long term, but citizens can drive to the beach this weekend and every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until further notice.”
“I am thrilled we could play a role in making the island accessible to the public,” Ankner said. “The best DOTD projects are those that help people come together as a community.”
There is no permit required for Elmer’s Island access by anyone 15 years of age or younger. Those wishing to utilize the island for recreational purposes, ages 16 and above, must possess one of the following: a valid Wild Louisiana Stamp, a valid Louisiana fishing license or a valid Louisiana hunting license.
The following guidelines will be enforced by LDWF Enforcement Division agents beginning Friday, July 3, 2009 at one half hour past sunrise and remain if effect each weekend thereafter:
•No nighttime activities.
•No hunting.
•No littering. Trash must be removed from the island by user(s).
•No camping, fishing or recreational items may be left on the island overnight.
•Vehicle parking is allowed on the beach for day-use activities.
•Vehicle speed limit is 5 mph on the access road from LA 1 and on the beach.
•The island will open 30 minutes before sunrise and close 30 minutes after sunset, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
“Our department will continue to help expand access for fishing and recreation so that all Louisianians will be able to enjoy the pleasures of our great state.” added Secretary Barham.
Before and following 4th of July weekend, when daily boat access to Elmer’s Island is allowed, LDWF rules already established will apply for all visitors. Those rules include day-use access only, no hunting, littering or camping.
For details on Elmer’s Island Wildlife Refuge, visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov.
