Lake Ray Hubbard
A comprehensive exploration of this vital freshwater reservoir, its origins, and its significance to the North Texas region.
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Overview
Geographic Context
Lake Ray Hubbard, originally known as Eastern Dallas Lake or Forney Lake, is a significant freshwater reservoir situated in the North Texas region. It spans across Dallas, Kaufman, Collin, and Rockwall counties, serving as a crucial water resource for the surrounding metropolitan area.
Hydrological Significance
The reservoir was created by the construction of the Rockwall-Forney Dam, which impounded the waters of the East Fork Trinity River. This strategic impoundment ensures a substantial water supply for the region, contributing to municipal and industrial needs.
Location and Infrastructure
Located just north of the City of Forney, the lake is a prominent feature in the landscape. Major transportation arteries, including Interstate 30 (I-30) via the Eastern Dallas Causeway and President George Bush Turnpike, traverse the lake, highlighting its integration with regional infrastructure.
Key Features
Surface Area and Capacity
Lake Ray Hubbard covers an expansive area of 22,745 acres (approximately 9,205 hectares). Its storage capacity is substantial, holding up to 490,000 acre-feet (around 600 million cubic meters) of water, underscoring its importance as a water source.
Depth and Elevation
The reservoir reaches a maximum depth of 40 feet (approximately 12 meters). Its surface elevation is maintained at 435.5 feet (about 132.7 meters) above sea level, a critical factor for water management and distribution.
Ownership and Management
The dam and reservoir are currently owned and managed by Dallas Water Utilities, a division of the City of Dallas. This ensures coordinated management for water supply, flood control, and recreational access.
Coordinates
The geographic coordinates for Lake Ray Hubbard are approximately 32°47′58″N 96°29′42″W (32.79944°N 96.49500°W).
Historical Development
Conception and Construction
The project, initially conceived to serve the water needs of North Texas, commenced in 1964. Construction was undertaken by the S. and A. Construction Company and the Markham, Brown and M. C. Winter Construction Company. The lake was impounded in 1968, with the completion of its 2-mile (3.2 km) earthfill dam in 1969. By 1970, the reservoir had reached its maximum design extent.
Jurisdictional Evolution
Due to Dallas's expansion and its extraterritorial jurisdiction, Lake Ray Hubbard and its associated infrastructure, including the I-30 bridges, now fall under the City of Dallas's governance. While mutual-aid agreements exist with surrounding municipalities, Dallas holds ultimate responsibility for the lake's management.
Infrastructure Development
The lake's location within a populated area necessitated significant bridge and causeway construction. Key structures include the six-lane, 2.9-mile (4.7 km) I-30 causeway bisecting the lake, the 0.9-mile (1.4 km) bridge for President George Bush Turnpike completed in 2012, and the 1.8-mile (2.9 km) Texas State Highway 66 bridge, originally built in the 1970s and later twinned. A railway crossing also spans the Muddy Creek inlet.
Environmental Considerations
Over time, certain areas of the lake have experienced infestations of invasive aquatic vegetation, notably hydrilla, which can impact water quality and recreational use.
Recreational Opportunities
Angling Pursuits
Lake Ray Hubbard is a popular destination for anglers, supporting a diverse population of game fish. Key species include hybrid striped bass, white bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, white crappie, and black crappie, offering varied fishing experiences throughout the year.
Boating and Water Sports
The expansive surface area and depth make the lake suitable for a wide range of boating activities, from recreational cruising to water sports. Facilities like the Rush Creek Yacht Club cater to sailing enthusiasts and provide community engagement.
Public Access and Amenities
While specific amenities are not detailed in the source, lakes of this nature typically offer public access points, parks, and marinas, facilitating community use and enjoyment of the water resources.
Water Management
Water Resource Stewardship
Managed by Dallas Water Utilities, Lake Ray Hubbard is a critical component of the region's water infrastructure. Its primary function is to provide a reliable source of freshwater for municipal and potentially industrial use, ensuring the needs of a growing population are met.
Aquatic Vegetation Control
The presence of invasive species like hydrilla necessitates ongoing management efforts to maintain water quality, ecological balance, and the usability of the lake for recreation and water intake. These efforts are crucial for the long-term health of the reservoir ecosystem.
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References
References
- Lake Ray Hubbard General Info Retrieved 31-Jul-2006
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website regarding water conditions, recreational safety, or environmental factors is for general knowledge only and should not substitute professional consultation. Always adhere to local regulations, safety guidelines, and consult official sources for the most current information regarding water quality, boating safety, and environmental conditions before visiting or utilizing Lake Ray Hubbard.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.