The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has scheduled a drawdown of Lake Bistineau in Webster, Bossier, and Bienville parishes to begin on August 12, 2026 for the purpose of reducing further expansion of the invasive aquatic plant, giant salvinia. Extensive efforts were undertaken this year by LDWF Inland Fisheries staff to slow the expansion of salvinia and allow the lake to remain at full pool stage for the maximum amount of summertime days. Despite these extensive control efforts, the rapid expansion of giant salvinia warrants the need for a drawdown at this time. This drawdown action is one component of LDWF’s integrated management plan to control overabundant aquatic vegetation, improve and sustain access for recreational activities, and improve fisheries habitat.