History of Lake Travis in Timeline
Lake Travis is a reservoir located on the Colorado River in central Texas, USA. Named after William B. Travis, it's a popular destination for boating, swimming, and other water activities. The lake is known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Formed by the Mansfield Dam, Lake Travis is an important source of water for the surrounding region and plays a role in flood control. It is surrounded by parks, residential areas, and recreational facilities, contributing to the local economy and providing leisure opportunities for residents and visitors.
July 1938: Dam Height Increase
Following a severe flood in July 1938, the height of the Mansfield Dam was increased to enhance its floodwater storage capacity.
1942: Mansfield Dam Completion
The Mansfield Dam was completed in 1942 to control flooding in the area.
August 14, 1951: Historic Low Water Level
Lake Travis reached its all-time lowest water level of 614.2 feet above msl on August 14, 1951.
November 8, 1963: Second Lowest Water Level
On November 8, 1963, Lake Travis hit its second lowest recorded water level at 615.02 feet above msl.
April 1971: Ferry Service Inauguration
In April 1971, a 20-minute ferry service commenced operations between Point Venture and the south side of Hurst Creek, marking the only inland ferry service in Texas at the time.
December 25, 1991: Historic High Water Level
Lake Travis reached its historic high water level of 710.4 feet above msl on December 25, 1991.
2000: Lake Travis Total Deaths Ranking
From 2000 to 2015, Lake Travis tied for second place for total deaths in Texas lakes.
2008: Leeches in Lake Travis
Several reports of leeches, generally harmless but a nuisance, surfaced in Lake Travis during spring 2008.
2008: 2008-2009 Drought
The extreme drought of 2008-2009 significantly impacted the water level of Lake Travis.
November 2009: Fourth Lowest Water Level
In November 2009, the lake's water level dropped to its fourth lowest point at 626.09 feet above msl during the 2008-2009 drought.
2010: 2010-2013 Southern US Drought
During the 2010-2013 Southern United States drought, Lake Travis experienced its third lowest water level ever.
2011: Lake Travis Accidental Fatalities Ranking
In 2011, Lake Travis ranked first in Texas for accidental fatalities.
2015: Lake Travis Total Deaths Ranking
From 2000 to 2015, Lake Travis tied for second place for total deaths in Texas lakes.
April 2016: Return to Full Capacity
Lake Travis returned to its full capacity of 681 feet in April 2016.
2018: 2018 Llano River Flood Impact
In 2018, Lake Travis experienced a significant 20-foot rise in water level within a single day due to the Llano River flood.
2018: Drowning Deaths in Lake Travis
Six people drowned in Lake Travis in 2018, contributing to the 29 boating deaths reported in Texas that year.
September 5, 2020: Trump Boat Parade Incident
On September 5, 2020, a boat parade supporting Donald Trump resulted in several boats sinking in Lake Travis due to the wakes generated by the boats moving together.
