News

Take safety precautions when visiting the Highland Lakes

Lake LBJ and the other Highland Lakes remain open to recreation, but LCRA cautions the lakes are non-chlorinated, natural water bodies that may contain harmful ameba or bacteria. LCRA strongly recommends people take precautions to limit exposure by keeping their heads out of the water or covering their noses when jumping into the water, as the ameba enters the body through the nose. The ameba that can cause an amebic meningitis infection thrives in warm water and is commonly found in fresh water. Though LCRA conducts water quality testing on the Highland Lakes, we do not monitor for the ameba that can cause amebic meningitis, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there is no routine and rapid test for the ameba. The CDC recommends that recreational water users always assume there is a risk for infection. For more information, see the Aug. 30 notice from the Austin Public Health Department. For more information on water safety, visit the Be LakeWise webpage.

LCRA working to meet future water needs in fast-growing areas

LCRA is targeting having an additional 60,000 acre-feet per year of water supply in the high-growth area from the Highland Lakes to Wharton County, including the dynamic Interstate 35/Texas 130 corridor.

LCRA general manager on the drought

In his Aug. 23 update to the LCRA Board of Directors, General Manager Phil Wilson reports on current drought conditions and explains why everyone should use water wisely.

LCRA urges cutbacks in outdoor watering as severe drought persists

As the extreme drought continues, LCRA has entered Stage 2 of its drought response and is asking water customers to cut back water use by 10%-20%.

Toxic algae detected in Lake LBJ and Inks Lake

LCRA has detected toxic algae at levels that could pose a danger to dogs and people recreating in Lake LBJ and Inks Lake.

LCRA selects Fagen, Inc., to design and build new peaker plant in Central Texas

Minnesota-based Fagen, Inc. will be the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contractor for LCRA’s new peaker power plant being built near Maxwell in Caldwell County.

LCRA TSC works to storm harden transmission lines in northern Travis County

Project will increase reliability, safety of lines going from near Mansfield Dam to north Austin.

LCRA offers rebates for milfoil management on Lake LBJ, Inks Lake

LCRA is providing rebates of up to 50% of the project cost, up to a maximum of $12,500 per rebate, for milfoil removal or treatment conducted by HOAs, POAs, cities or counties on Lake LBJ or Inks Lake.

‘Be LakeWise’ when visiting the Highland Lakes this summer

LCRA is reminding lake goers to use safe boating and swimming practices such as wearing a life jacket and watching out for hidden hazards.

LCRA awards nearly $815,000 in grants to support community projects

LCRA recently awarded almost $815,000 in Community Development Partnership Program grants for community projects throughout LCRA’s wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas.

Events at LCRA parks

See what’s happening at more than 40 parks along the lower Colorado River.