Big Creek Lake holds a special place in Mobile—it’s not only a quiet stretch of water but also the source of drinking water for the city and parts of Baldwin County.
That makes it more than just a fishing spot. It’s a lifeline.
That’s why the Mobile Area Water and Sewer Service (MAWSS) is stepping in with new legal action.
In a statement this week, the utility said it has filed a lawsuit and is seeking an arrest warrant to safeguard the reservoir from unauthorized access.
The move is designed to secure the lake’s role as a clean, dependable water supply for the community.
A Viral Video Sparks Action
The latest chapter in the Big Creek story began with a Facebook video.
In it, a group of fishermen cast their lines into the lake, joking and celebrating their catch.
What might look like a simple day outdoors, though, raised red flags for MAWSS.
The utility says some fishermen crossed protective booms designed to block runoff and spills from reaching the reservoir.
Those barriers are a key part of how MAWSS keeps drinking water safe. By crossing them, MAWSS argues, the group put the resource at risk.
Legal Steps for Long-Term Security
Instead of waiting for problems to arise, MAWSS is asking the courts to clearly define its authority.
The new lawsuit seeks a ruling that confirms the agency has full control over the operation and regulation of Big Creek Lake.
If granted, the judgment would provide extra legal support for protecting the reservoir now and in the future.
“We believe this will provide additional legal backing for MAWSS authority over the reservoir,” the release said, underscoring that the goal is to ensure the community’s water supply remains secure and reliable.
Fishermen Cite Old Laws, MAWSS Looks Ahead
Some fishermen disagree with the crackdown. Andy Elsworth, who says he may be the subject of the arrest warrant, argues the group found a legal access point that avoided private property.
He and others point to an 1858 Alabama law declaring Big Creek a navigable stream and public highway, suggesting that designation makes the reservoir public.
MAWSS, however, is focused on today’s realities.
With thousands relying on the lake for drinking water, the utility says control is critical.
By bringing the matter before a judge, MAWSS hopes to prevent confusion, settle questions about access, and strengthen its ability to manage the lake responsibly.
Building Confidence in the Future
No court date has been set yet, but the proactive approach signals MAWSS’s commitment to more than just running water lines—it’s about long-term trust in the tap.
The lawsuit and enforcement steps may sound tough, but they’re framed as safeguards to keep Mobile’s most important reservoir protected from risks.
Big Creek Lake has been the focus of debate for years, but the story here is also one of stewardship.
By acting early and seeking legal clarity, MAWSS is working to make sure this vital water source remains clean, secure, and dependable for generations to come.
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