The Alan Henry Lake, located in Garza County, Texas, is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hiking. As with any body of water, the current water level is an essential piece of information for both recreational users and environmental managers. According to the latest data from the United States Bureau of Reclamation, the current water level of Alan Henry Lake is approximately 2,200.5 feet above sea level, which is about 94.5% of the lake's total capacity. This information is crucial for understanding the lake's water storage capacity, as well as its potential impact on downstream water users and the surrounding ecosystem.
Understanding Alan Henry Lake’s Water Levels
Alan Henry Lake is a man-made reservoir, created in 1993 with the construction of the Alan Henry Dam on the Double Mountain Fork Brazos River. The lake has a total capacity of approximately 365,000 acre-feet of water and a surface area of around 2,900 acres. The water level of the lake is carefully managed by the City of Lubbock, which owns and operates the lake, to balance the needs of water supply, flood control, and recreational activities. The lake’s water level is typically highest during the spring and summer months, when rainfall and runoff from the surrounding watershed are at their peak, and lowest during the winter months, when evaporation and water usage are highest.
Factors Affecting Alan Henry Lake’s Water Level
Several factors can influence the water level of Alan Henry Lake, including precipitation, evaporation, inflow from the Double Mountain Fork Brazos River, and outflow for municipal and agricultural water supply. Additionally, the lake’s water level can be affected by drought conditions, which can reduce the amount of water available for storage, and flood events, which can cause the lake to overflow and impact downstream communities. The City of Lubbock works closely with the Texas Water Development Board and other stakeholders to monitor and manage the lake’s water level, ensuring that it remains within a safe and sustainable range.
| Water Level Indicator | Current Value |
|---|---|
| Water Level (ft) | 2,200.5 |
| Capacity (%) | 94.5% |
| Inflow (cfs) | 50 |
| Outflow (cfs) | 20 |
Key Points
- The current water level of Alan Henry Lake is approximately 2,200.5 feet above sea level, which is about 94.5% of the lake's total capacity.
- The lake's water level is influenced by factors such as precipitation, evaporation, inflow, and outflow.
- The City of Lubbock works closely with the Texas Water Development Board and other stakeholders to monitor and manage the lake's water level.
- The lake's water level can fluctuate significantly over time, depending on various factors such as climate, precipitation, and human activities.
- Regular monitoring and adjustments to management strategies are crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource.
Importance of Monitoring Alan Henry Lake’s Water Level
Monitoring the water level of Alan Henry Lake is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource. By tracking changes in the lake’s water level, managers can identify trends and make informed decisions about water management, such as adjusting the amount of water released from the lake or implementing conservation measures to reduce water usage. Additionally, monitoring the lake’s water level can help prevent flooding and protect downstream communities from potential flood risks. By working together, stakeholders can ensure that Alan Henry Lake continues to provide a reliable source of water for municipal, agricultural, and recreational uses, while also protecting the surrounding environment and ecosystem.
Future Directions for Alan Henry Lake Water Management
As the demand for water continues to grow in the region, it’s essential to develop and implement sustainable water management strategies for Alan Henry Lake. This may involve investing in water conservation measures, such as water-saving technologies and education programs, as well as exploring alternative water sources, such as desalination or water reuse. By taking a proactive and collaborative approach to water management, stakeholders can ensure that Alan Henry Lake remains a vital and sustainable water resource for generations to come.
What is the current water level of Alan Henry Lake?
+The current water level of Alan Henry Lake is approximately 2,200.5 feet above sea level, which is about 94.5% of the lake’s total capacity.
What factors can influence the water level of Alan Henry Lake?
+Several factors can influence the water level of Alan Henry Lake, including precipitation, evaporation, inflow, and outflow.
Why is it essential to monitor the water level of Alan Henry Lake?
+Monitoring the water level of Alan Henry Lake is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource, as it allows managers to identify trends and make informed decisions about water management.