In the heart of Texas, where the Colorado River carves its path, lies a shimmering jewel Lake Travis. But, what secrets does this vast reservoir hold, and how does it shape the lives of those who call its shores home?
Lake Travis, a sprawling expanse of water in central Texas, is much more than just a picturesque landscape. It's a vital artery for the region, serving multiple purposes that impact countless individuals. From providing essential water supplies to offering recreational havens, this reservoir plays a pivotal role in the community. Formed in 1942 by the construction of the Mansfield Dam, Lake Travis is the largest of the Highland Lakes, a chain of six freshwater lakes created by dams along the lower Colorado River. Its serpentine course stretches 65 miles upriver from western Travis County, snaking its way into Burnet County.
Lake Travis, however, faces constant pressures from environmental factors, including drought. Last year, both Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan experienced their lowest capacities since 2013. The current water supply condition remains under extraordinary drought conditions, as defined by the Water Management Plan (WMP). It's a stark reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human needs. The last time both Lake Buchanan and Lake Travis reached their full capacity was back in July 2019.
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The reservoir is not just a scenic vista, it is a multifaceted resource, offering recreation, flood control, and water supply. Lake Travis is considered full for water supply purposes at 681 feet above mean sea level (MSL). Beyond this level, the flood control gates at the Mansfield Dam, under the guidance of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, swing into action. The reservoir is designed specifically to hold back floodwaters, a crucial element for the safety of the surrounding communities. This design dates back to after a severe flood in July 1938, when the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) raised the height of the dam to add additional storage for floodwaters.
Lake Travis isn't just a place for water; it's a place for people. Devils Cove, near Hudson Bend, is a hub of celebration, where party boats gather to create unforgettable memories for various events. With an approximate surface area of 19,300 acres and a storage capacity that dwarfs the other Highland Lakes, Lake Travis is a central point for both locals and visitors who cherish the beauty and utility of this iconic Texas reservoir.
For those who require water quality information, the LCRA website offers detailed insights. In addition, it's important to know that the LCRA and Travis County Parks continue to strongly advise people to avoid contact with algae in Lake Travis and Lake Austin and keep their dogs from ingesting or playing in it.
Further developments are coming to Lake Travis High School, thanks to the approval of a $143 million bond package by the Lake Travis ISD. This initiative will significantly upgrade athletic facilities, including raising the capacity of Cavalier Stadium to 12,000. This renovation marks a new chapter for the high school, where the current capacity is around 7,400. The construction of the Mansfield Dam manages water levels and floodgate operations, which are located just west of Austin. The dam is also designed to fluctuate, capturing water during the rainy season and storing it for drier times. As one of the most prominent water bodies in the region, Lake Travis stands as a testament to human engineering and nature's power, a place of beauty, recreation, and crucial service.
The water supply situation in Lake Travis is closely monitored. The lake is considered full for water supply at 681 feet msl. The lowest Lake Travis has ever been was at 614.18 feet, which dates back to 1951. The reservoir is currently at approximately 43% full, if the lake storage drops to 37.5% capacity, LCRA will enter stage 3 drought restrictions.
The power installation at the Mansfield Dam consists of three turbines with a combined generating capacity of 108 megawatts. The instream flow criteria is subsistence, and Matagorda Bay inflow criteria is threshold.
For those interested in the recreational aspect, it's possible to book some of the largest party boats on Lake Travis. Some charters require reservations, a 50% deposit, and a minimum of four hours of charter time.
Lake Travis is the largest reservoir in Texas with a storage capacity of seven Highland Lakes. The lake's water level is continuously monitored and is subject to change.
The data provided here is provisional and subject to revision. Further information can be found on the LCRA website.
Here's a table summarizing key facts about Lake Travis:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Central Texas, along the Colorado River, stretching from western Travis County to Burnet County. |
| Formation | Created in 1942 by the construction of Mansfield Dam. |
| Purpose | Recreation, water supply, flood control. |
| Size | Approximately 19,300 acres of surface area. |
| Storage Capacity | Largest of the seven Highland Lakes. |
| Length | 65 miles (105 km) upriver. |
| Full Level (for water supply) | 681 feet above mean sea level (MSL). |
| Flood Control | Designed to hold back floodwaters; floodgates at Mansfield Dam are opened under the direction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. |
| Drought Conditions | Current water supply conditions remain under extraordinary drought. |
| Water Sources | Colorado River. |
| Recreational Areas | Devils Cove and others. |
| Other Lakes | Part of the Highland Lakes chain, along with Lake Buchanan, Lake Austin, and Lady Bird Lake. |
| Dam Name | Mansfield Dam |
References to brand names throughout this report do not imply endorsement by the state of Texas.
Note: This information is based on the provided text and may be subject to updates.
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