Abandoned camp threatens Ouiska Chitto Creek as agencies seek removal solution

ALLEN PARISH, La. (KPLC) - An abandoned camp that collapsed into Ouiska Chitto Creek in July has prompted state agencies to intervene as local officials seek solutions for removal before the high water season begins.

Allen Parish resident Taylor Alexander said she has monitored the deteriorating structure across from her property for years, knowing it would eventually fall. After the camp collapsed this summer, she began efforts to determine who is responsible for removing the debris.

“I don’t know who is responsible for ultimately enforcing it, but I just know it needs to be cleaned up before the high waters get here, and we’ll start to see the water rise as soon as the rain starts in December,” Alexander said. “In January, that bank will be completely underwater and all of that camp will be washed into the waterway.”

Alexander brought her concerns to the Allen Parish Police Jury, which has since contacted state agencies for assistance.

Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries has determined the old camp will soon fall into the water, violating the littering portion of the Scenic River Act. The agency said it still needs to conduct an on-site investigation.

The investigation will be followed by a compliance order requiring the property owner to begin removal efforts, which the state has issued in similar situations.

The Allen Parish Police Jury said in a statement that it is working with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to explore solutions.

The police jury said it does not have funds dedicated to cleaning up dilapidated properties, although it is reviewing its ordinance to better address similar situations in the future.