LCRA launches ‘Conquer the Colorado’ water safety campaign
Arming Texas swimmers and boaters with tips for staying safe on the lower Colorado River
May 11, 2026
Key Takeaways
- LCRA is launching Conquer the Colorado, a water safety initiative to help keep swimmers and boaters safe in the lower Colorado River from the Highland Lakes to Matagorda Bay.
- The campaign targets young adults, families and recreational boaters with three safety rules: know the hidden hazards below the surface, come with a game plan and watch for the silent signs of drowning to keep your crew safe.
- Find more at lcra.org/watersafety and follow #ConquerTheColorado on social media.
AUSTIN, Texas — LCRA is launching Conquer the Colorado, a water safety program that equips swimmers and boaters with the tips, tools and knowledge they need to confidently enjoy the lower Colorado River, from the Highland Lakes to Matagorda Bay.
The campaign delivers real-life guidance for Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Travis, Lake Austin and the entire lower Colorado River basin.
Know the rules. Beat the odds.
Conquer the Colorado is built around three simple but potentially life-saving principles designed to protect the Highland Lakes’ core summer audience – young adults, families and recreational boaters:
- Watch out for hidden hazards. The lakes have hidden hazards below the surface such as submerged trees, sudden drop-offs and unpredictable currents. Recognizing what you’re up against is the first step to staying safe.
- Come with a game plan. Know your swim zones, plan with your group, wear your life jacket and designate a sober boat operator before you leave the dock. Never swim alone.
- Have each other’s backs. Real drowning is silent and fast. Knowing the five signs of drowning, keeping eyes on your crew and being ready to respond quickly helps everyone make it home.
“We’re not here to lecture anyone. We’re here to make sure every crew that hits the water this summer makes it home. That’s what this campaign is about.”
– John Hofmann, LCRA executive vice president of Water
Stay undefeated
Find everything you need to Conquer the Colorado at lcra.org/watersafety and by following #ConquerTheColorado on social media.
About LCRA
The Lower Colorado River Authority serves communities across Texas by managing the lower Colorado River, generating and transmitting wholesale electric power, providing clean water supplies, operating telecommunications infrastructure, and owning parks for outdoor recreation. LCRA delivers power, water and infrastructure that support the region’s growth and quality of life. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. Created by the Texas Legislature in 1934, LCRA receives no state appropriations.
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