False River has recently suffered from poor water quality and noticeable siltation. The proposed ecosystem restoration project is an effort by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District to restore the health of False River.

The declining water quality has resulted in negative impacts to fish, wildlife, and aquatic vegetation. Of specific concern to the users of the lake is the adverse impact upon the fish population. This has resulted in a marked decline in species richness and diversity. Additionally, as a result of fish viruses and fish kills that have taken place in the last few years, False River has lost it's trophy status.

This degradation can be attributed to the loss of habitat through introduction of siltation, increased nutrient loading along with pesticides & pollutants entering the lake through the more than 50 miles of drainage canals from adjacent pastureland and watershed drainages.

For additional information see the False River Project factsheet. The local sponsor point of contact is William Don Ray, Chairman, False River Lake Commission, 225-627-9803.

Visit this other New Orleans District environmental restoration project web page:
Blackwater Conservation Area