LDWF Uses Drone to Catch Illegal Oyster Harvest

Drone Technology Aids in Enforcement of Oyster Harvest Regulations

Louisiana wildlife officials are utilizing drones to monitor and enforce regulations against illegal oyster harvesting.

What happened

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has intensified its use of drone technology to combat illegal oyster harvesting. On February 3, agents cited a man in Terrebonne Parish for allegedly harvesting oysters during a closed season in the Sister (Caillou) Lake Oyster Seed Reservation.

At approximately 4:45 a.m., agents launched a drone over the reservation and observed a vessel actively collecting oysters in an area that had been closed since December 29. The individual, identified as 47-year-old Angel Torres from Houma, was found with around 900 pounds of oysters.

Torres was cited for multiple violations, including harvesting during a closed season, failing to keep a logbook, and not possessing a commercial fishing license. The agents seized the oysters and the equipment used for harvesting.

In a separate incident on December 20, LDWF agents used drones to monitor illegal oyster activity in Calcasieu Parish. They cited a 37-year-old man for harvesting oysters from a polluted area after receiving complaints. The agents recorded the activity from the air and noted additional violations related to vessel identification and sanitation.

Why it matters

  • Drone technology enhances the ability of wildlife officials to monitor vast public oyster grounds.
  • Illegal harvesting can severely impact local ecosystems and the fishing industry.
  • Enforcement actions serve as a deterrent against future violations and promote compliance with regulations.

What to do next

  • Report any suspected illegal oyster harvesting to the LDWF through their Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-442-2511.
  • Submit anonymous tips via text by sending “LADWF” and the tip to 847411 or use the LADWF Tips app.

Source

Original reporting by www.outdoorhub.com: https://www.outdoorhub.com/news/2026/02/19/ldwf-uses-drone-catch-illegal-oyster-harvest/