Unfortunately, Since IP Donated Their Interests in Lake Erling to the AGRED Foundation

Lake Erling is a beautiful 7,000 plus acre lake located in Lafayette County, Arkansas. It was built by International Paper Company as a fresh water supply for their Springhill Mill. The Act of Exchange of 1952 between IP and The USA concerning the public usage of the reservoir was filed for record in October of 1952 and work began to construct Percy Cobb Dam on Bodcau Creek in southern Lafayette County Arkansas. Lake Erling filled to capacity for the first time in 1956 and quickly became a premier fishing lake and continues to offer great fishing today. The great fishing is largely due to a management agreement between IP and The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The AGFC has done extensive testing of the fishery and stocked accordingly. Unfortunately, since IP donated their interests in Lake Erling to The AGRED Foundation, there has been no agreement in place whereby The AGFC will manage the Lake. The AGFC is still very much interested in Lake Erling and is working to come to an agreement with AGRED which will allow them not only to manage the Lake but to improve public access as well. Lake Erling provides excellent habitat for wildlife and is home to many species of game and fowl throughout the year. Hundreds of families live on the Lake and many more enjoy seasonal homes on the banks of the scenic waters. The economic value of Lake Erling to Lafayette County is significant. For decades there were public access points on both sides of the Lake but in 2010 the western access was lost when new ownership stopped public access to the camping areas and AGFC constructed boat ramp at the end of Don Albright Road. This was a serious blow to the public's use and enjoyment of Lake Erling. Public access is the foremost interest of The AGFC, Lafayette County Government, and FOLEA and we are working hard to improve the limited access which currently exists. Hopefully soon we will have good news to report on public access for Lake Erling!