Big Creek Lake reopens to public after controversial battle with MAWSS; The Fight Continues

Mobile County, AL (BuzzReport)- Big Creek Lake is reopening to the public today, marking a major turning point after months of tension between local residents and the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System (MAWSS).

The reopening follows an agreement that restores public fishing access to the lake, a move widely celebrated across Mobile County. The lake, a vital source of drinking water and recreation, had been at the center of an ongoing dispute after MAWSS previously restricted access over environmental concerns, particularly the threat of invasive species like zebra mussels.

A grassroots coalition, Take Back Big Creek Lake, which has led the charge to restore access, released a pointed statement in response to the reopening.

The group confirmed it will not attend the official reopening ceremony, citing a lack of invitation despite what it describes as a critical role in reversing MAWSS’ original 2025 decision to restrict use of the lake.

In its statement, the committee welcomed the return of fishing but made clear the fight is far from over. Members argue that access remains limited, particularly for privately owned boats, which are still restricted under current policies.

The group contends there are viable solutions being ignored. They point to earlier remarks made in 2025 by MAWSS Director Bud McCrory in Montgomery, where he acknowledged that the lake’s boat wash system is capable of reaching the 140-degree temperature needed to eliminate zebra mussels. Despite this, the system has not been implemented for public use.

Take Back Big Creek Lake argues that certified inspections and decontamination procedures—already used in other states—could safely allow private boat launches while protecting the water supply.

The committee went further, framing the issue as one of constitutional rights, accusing MAWSS leadership and its governing board of making a deliberate choice that limits public access without exhausting available alternatives.

While today’s reopening represents a significant win for public access advocates, tensions between the community and MAWSS remain high. The committee reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for full restoration of lake access, including private boating rights.

For now, anglers are returning to the water, but the broader fight over how Big Creek Lake is managed—and who gets to use it—appears far from settled.