Description:

The Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation’s mission is to “save our lake, save our coast.” Our beautiful Lake Pontchartrain has long served both as a functional waterway and a playground for New Orleanians. The Lake Pontchartrain Basin itself, one of the largest estuarine systems in the Gulf of Mexico, contains a stunning variety of terrain and wildlife, including 22 essential habitats. During the latter part of the 20^th century though, Lake Pontchartrain had sadly deteriorated in water quality. Established in 1989, LPBF has made recreational fishing and boating possible again in Lake Pontchartrain, resolving many of the environmental concerns that threatened this 630 square mile brackish estuary. It’s working now on a coastal management plan to preserve the eroding coastline, the water quality, and the habitats of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin, a 10,000 square mile watershed encompassing 16 parishes in South Louisiana.

On September 5^th and 6^th, LPBF sponsors its 17^th Annual Save Our Lake & Coast Fishing Rodeo. The basin area includes bayous, rivers and tributaries of Lake Pontchartrain, Maurepas, St. Catherine, Borgne and Breton Sound. For a $40 fee for the Open Division and Kayak Division, and $15 for Youth Division, you can compete in various categories, and come to the after party and awards presentation at The New Canal Lighthouse. The Lighthouse is another restoration project undertaken by LPBF, rebuilding the damaged 1890 lighthouse to serve again as a nighttime beacon for lake navigation. The Rodeo is a terrific way to experience the Lake Pontchartrain Basin and employ your fishing skills to help LPBF in its efforts to preserve and restore our Lake and Basin’s natural beauty.