High water temporarily closes boat launches on Red River

The public boat launching ramps (operated by the Red River Waterway Commission) on the Red River are closed due to high water caused by heavy rainfall. This includes the ramps in Caddo, Bossier, Red River, Natchitoches, Grant, Rapides and Avoyelles Parishes. As a result, the docks, which are a vital part of safely launching a boat into the river, are under water. Launching a boat into the swift current, with floating debris, is not recommended during this period of high water.
The decision to close the public boat launching ramps described above is a safety measure based on procedures developed by the Red River Waterway Commission in conjunction with the Red River Valley Association, local sheriff departments and law enforcement/safety personnel.
The Red River is not closed to boat traffic. Boaters may want to contact the private marinas on the Red River to discuss launch conditions prior to arrival. We regret any inconvenience this may cause to boaters and commercial fishermen wishing to utilize these facilities to access the Red River. The boat launches will be re-opened as soon as conditions permit the public to utilize the ramps safely.
For up-to-date information, visit www.redriverwaterway.com or call the Red River Waterway Commission at 318-352-7446 or 1-800-874-9431.