BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents have conducted dozens of rescues and public assists across the state during the recent winter storm, responding to stranded motorists, boaters and essential workers affected by icy conditions.
Since the beginning of the storm, agents have completed 32 public assists, primarily in northern parishes. Their efforts included freeing vehicles stuck in ditches and roadways, clearing debris, and supporting local law enforcement. Agents also responded to five incidents involving people stranded on the water.
On Jan. 24, agents rescued two duck hunters from shallow water and mud on the Red River in Bossier Parish. Both were brought to safety without injuries. That same day, agents rescued two stranded boaters on the Wham Brake portion of the Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area. The boaters were evaluated for hypothermia and released.
In another incident on Jan. 25, agents assisted a stranded boater on Henderson Bay after his boat failed to start due to a dead battery. They jump-started the vessel and escorted him safely back to the launch. No medical attention was required.
Also on Jan. 24, an LDWF agent located three missing juveniles whose truck was stuck in the Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge. The agent transported them to safety.
Agents have also helped transport 83 essential workers to and from the Northeast Veterans Home in Monroe and the Northwest Veterans Home in Bossier City.
“I’m extremely proud of the dedication and professionalism our agents have shown while operating under very challenging conditions,” said Col. Stephen Clark, head of the LDWF Enforcement Division. “Despite the obstacles they’ve faced, they have continued to carry out their duties effectively without incident.”
LDWF agents are additionally investigating a capsized houseboat in Ouachita Parish on Bayou D’Arbonne on Jan. 25. Four people were on board when the vessel overturned due to ice accumulation. All reached the bank safely and were evaluated by medical personnel before being released.
LDWF officials cautioned boaters that ice buildup on vessels can increase the risk of capsizing by raising the vessel’s center of gravity and lowering its position in the water. The agency urged the public to avoid using boats with significant ice accumulation.