Lake Verret


Lake Verret is a natural lake located in Assumption Parish, Louisiana, within the Atchafalaya River Basin of the Lower Mississippi River Region. The lake’s watershed spans approximately, including portions of Ascension Parish, Assumption Parish, and Iberville Parish.

History

Lake Verret is named after Nicolas Verret, a French-Canadian explorer and early commandant in the region. A historical monument honoring Nicolas Verret stands in front of the Assumption Parish Courthouse in Napoleonville, Louisiana.

Geography and hydrology

Lake Verret lies within the Atchafalaya Basin, the largest river swamp in the United States. It is a shallow lake with an average depth of and a maximum depth of. The lake drains southward into Grassy Lake and Lake Palourde, eventually reaching the Atchafalaya River and the Gulf of Mexico. Seasonal water levels fluctuate due to rainfall and basin hydrology.

Ecology

The lake supports a diverse ecosystem of aquatic vegetation and wildlife. Common plant species include cypress, tupelo, buttonbush, and aquatic grasses. Invasive species such as water hyacinth, salvinia, and hydrilla are periodically managed by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Fish species include largemouth bass, white crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and bowfin.

Recreation

Lake Verret is popular for boating, fishing, birdwatching, and hunting. Public boat launches include Attakapas Landing and Belle River Landing. The surrounding cypress swamps offer scenic opportunities for kayaking and photography.

Elm Hall Wildlife Management Area

The Elm Hall [Wildlife Management Area] borders the northeast side of Lake Verret. Managed by LDWF, it features cypress-tupelo swamps and bottomland hardwoods, providing habitat for bald eagles, wood ducks, and migratory waterfowl. Activities include hunting, fishing, camping, and birding. Access is by boat only.

Environmental management

Lake Verret faces challenges from invasive aquatic plants and sedimentation. LDWF conducts annual vegetation surveys and treatments to maintain navigation and ecological balance. Problematic species include water hyacinth, salvinia, and Peruvian watergrass.