MEADVILLE — The Okhissa Lake boat ramp on the Homochitto National Forest remains temporarily closed because of low water levels while the water control structure is under repair. Recreation area access remains open.

“The Forest Service has planned and funded the Okhissa Lake repair project thus far and these repairs remain a priority. To repair the water control structure, the water level must be brought down about 14 feet. Because of the amount of rainfall of over the last few months, the draw-down of the lake level is taking longer”, Homochitto District Ranger Shaun Williamson said.

Forest Service engineers and management staff have decided to begin repair on the upper portion of the water control structure to speed up the repair while we wait on the water to recede. This is in the contracting stage, he added.

Access to the lake remains for canoes, kayaks, and other small vessels that can be carried to the water’s edge for launch. Boating speeds are limited to idle until the repairs are made, and the water level rises.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience while we work on repairing the water control structure. We certainly recognize and appreciate how much visitors and the community enjoy Okhissa Lake,” Williamson said.