LULING — St. Charles Parish officials are advising residents to avoid using all terrain vehicles (ATVs) near the sites of the West Hurricane Protection Levee after sections have been damaged near the Willowdale Pump Station in Luling.

“We are counting on this levee to provide protection of life and property for the residents in the area,” Parish President Larry Cochran said. “Situations like this cost the parish unnecessary tax dollars and hinder our ability to continue efficient construction.”

Parish employees and contractors noticed the damage June 7 and did not immediately have a repair cost estimation. Anyone with information should call the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office at 985-783-6237.