By Cindy Roller
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/ketr/local-ketr-982603.mp3
Cooper – It is hot, and rain has been sparse. Suffering along with folks and wildlife is local attraction Cooper Lake State Park.
"We have a 19,000 acre lake opened in 1992 we are also pumping water out to Lake Lavon right now the lake is over eight foot low," said Mindy Hicks, Cooper Lake State Park Doctors Creek Unit Manager. "If we don't get some more water in the lake it is going to be pretty dry."
Currently there are two boat ramps - John's Creek and Honeycreek Ramps - closed due to the lake level.
"Actually, sand bass fishing is pretty good. Many folks are catching their limits," Hicks added.
Friends of Doctors Creek Park are holding their annual meeting on Saturday, Aug. 27 at the First Baptist Church in Cooper at 6 p.m. Some of the board members and officers have served their terms, and elections will be held for those positions.
Situated in northeastern Texas, Cooper Lake State Park is located in Delta and Hopkins Counties. Both counties are under a burn ban.
On the Hopkins County side of the lake, Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur Unit Manager Cody Waters reported decreased visitation.
"This is a catch up time for us," said Waters on the lack of attendance. "It is dry, and we are under a burn ban. We follow the County, and I have spoke with Hopkins County Judge Chris Brown. He has allowed the use of charcoal for cooking only, as protection for the park."
Keeping up with activities at John's Creek Lodge in Klondike is owner/operator Bobby Fregia.
"It is dry. I haven't seen it like this in months," Fregia said a bit discouraged and ready for the upcoming hunting seasons to open.
What is happening on Cooper Lake?
"Stripers and sand bass are biting good and catfish are always available on this lake," said Fregia.
In May of 2010, a new lake record was set with a catch of a 67.02 pound flathead catfish.
Fregia is looking forward to the arrival of his new boat and guide license so he can add fishing excursions to the Lodge's list of amenities.
For more information visit their website at www.johnscreeklodge.com or call 903-395-3223. For more Park information, go to www.tpwd.state.tx.us.