The Colorado River is an important part of the past, present and future of Texas. Perhaps most importantly, the Highland Lakes on the river northwest of Austin provide water for more than 1.4 million users, including communities, businesses, industries, agriculture and the environment.
The lakes are vital to maintaining a reliable water supply, providing flood management in the middle of Flash Flood Alley, creating hydroelectric power for the Texas power grid and much more. Information on this page explores the variety of ways LCRA manages the lakes and lower Colorado River for the benefit of the entire river basin.
Why are the lakes important?
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The Highland Lakes were created to manage floods and capture water when it rains to ensure the region has a reliable water supply during dry times.
Watch now: Get to know the Highland Lakes
Where does rain have to fall to flow into the region’s water supply reservoirs?
This year has been exceptionally dry, with below-normal rainfall throughout the Highland Lakes watershed. Inflows, or water flowing into the lakes, have been a fraction of what we typically see. Still, the lakes are doing their job – capturing water during rainy times so we have reliable water supplies during drier times.
Watch now: Rain and the Highland Lakes
Where does water from the Highland Lakes go?
LCRA supplies water for many uses, including municipal, irrigation, industrial, agricultural, domestic use and other beneficial uses authorized by law.
Watch now: Where does water from the Highland Lakes go
The new Arbuckle Reservoir is expected to begin operating in early 2019.
LCRA is not just talking about adding to region’s water supply – we are doing it.
LCRA's plan to keep our dams strong.
LCRA's dams — which create the Highland Lakes — are critical for water supplies and flood management in our region.
Watch now:Helping keep you safe along the Colorado River
