Visitors to Creve Coeur Lake Park can continue to enjoy the park’s trails and other amenities this fall and winter, but boating and public watercraft access to the lake will be closed from Nov. 2 through March 31 as crews work to remove invasive carp.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is partnering with U.S. Geological Survey research fish biologists from the Columbia Environmental Research Center and St. Louis County Parks and Recreation on the removal effort.
Crews will install nets to direct and concentrate invasive carp, which can harm native fish populations by consuming large quantities of plankton — a key food source for native fish and other aquatic organisms. Reducing carp populations can help protect native fisheries and support the health of the lake’s ecosystem.
During the project, visitors should stay at least 50 feet away from all equipment, netting and floating buoys for their safety. Some areas near boat ramps may be temporarily restricted, and visitors may encounter minor detours along nearby walking routes while crews are working.
Creve Coeur Lake Park will remain open during normal St. Louis County Parks operating hours. Public boating access is expected to reopen April 1, 2027.
For more information, contact the MDC St. Louis Regional Office at 636-300-1953. Questions or concerns may be directed to MDC Fisheries Biologist John Schulte at 636-300-1953, ext. 4137, or john.schulte@mdc.mo.gov.