HIDDEN GEMS

BASTROP-MOREHOUSE RIDGE

Over millions of years, the rivers in the Delta areas have changed course leaving high ridges or natural levees across the landscape. These ridges rise up from the Delta with magnificent views of plowed fields and lush crops. The higher elevations of ridges were essential in providing safe havens during times before modern levee systems controlled the mighty rivers. Morehouse Parish is blessed with such a gift, and about 22,000 people live on that ridge in Morehouse Parish. It is a unique and beautiful feature steeped in history and development as many sought locations near Bastrop. The State Park, Chemin-A Haut, is French for “The High Road” and provides a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, creeks, and high bluffs.

This trail was used by Native Americans and early settlers who recognized the value of the ridge. Later mills and other industries were located on the high ground. Time passes, but the ridge remains an enduring feature that has attracted people and commerce for thousands of years.

BASTROP-MOREHOUSE RIDGE AT COLLINSTON

The distance ridge rises as much as 40 feet above the fertile flat land in the Collinston area. A great location for growing companies that requires level land with easy access to Bastrop and the Monroe Metro area.

WATER RESOURCES

Good water is a precious item, and in economic development, we take water management very seriously. The closure of the International Paper Mills freed up many available resources, including abundant water supplies.

The primary source of water withdrawals in Morehouse Parish comes from the Mississippi River Alluvial Aquifer. However, multiple aquifers are available, some with excellent water at very shallow depths. It is difficult to predict the impact of adding a new high-demand water user. However, if the water supply is vital to your company, please review the USGS site for water resources. Bastrop may be the place for your new industrial operations.

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MOREHOUSE MEMORIAL AIRPORT

One of the brightest gems in Morehouse Parish is the airport, hidden behind the National Guard Armory and the Coulter Industrial Park. The Morehouse Memorial Airport was dedicated in 1948 to memorialize World War I and II veterans. The general aviation facility is owned and operated by the City of Bastrop.

Delta Community College, Bastrop Campus is located near the airport. Drone training has been offered at the campus although there is not an active program at this time. Programs can be offered to support specialized training for your aviation-based business.

The airport is 17 nautical miles northeast of the Monroe Regional Airport. The 440-acre site is strategically situated at one of the highest points east of the Ouachita River. The asphalt surface runway is 4,002 feet long. Hanger space is available on taxiways and additional larger tracts are available for lease. Services include tie-downs, fuel, and hangars.

The Monroe Regional Airport provides commercial and cargo service for the parish and surrounding region. In addition, there are seven general airports in northeast Louisiana.