Cypress Lake

I earned my undergraduate degree from The University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I have not toured many university campuses, but one thing that I can honestly say is that, this is a beautiful campus. The buildings are built with a deep red brick, there is lavish landscaping, and the campus is filled with oak trees that are over 100 years old.

There is one thing that sets UL-Lafayette aside from many other college campuses. In the center of all the action, sits a swamp filled with alligators, snapping turtles, coy fish, garfish, and many other species of wildlife. Cypress Lake is a peaceful setting, and it includes all of the beauty and sounds of nature, which are recreated in the middle of the city. Benches and tables surround the swamp, which allows students a pleasant and comfortable place to study.

The swamp is filled with Bald Cypress trees, which are covered with Spanish Moss. Also, covering the water is an invasive plant called salvinia molesta, which may totally cover the surface of the water, preventing light to penetrate to the bottom. This blocking of light will restrict underwater growth of plants and organisms, which many fish depend upon for nourishment.


Beware of the squirrels! I find it impossible to eat lunch around the swamp because it is attack of the squirrels. They are mean, and you cannot get rid of them. The squirrels are just a minor drawback to the serenity of the swamp. Fish food is also available, if you so desire to feed.