Lake Buchanan (Texas)
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| Lake Buchanan | |
|---|---|
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| Location | Texas |
| Coordinates | |
| Lake type | Hydroelectric reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Colorado River |
| Primary outflows | Colorado River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 22,333 acres (34.9 sq mi/90.4 km²) |
| Max. depth | 132 ft (40 m) |
| Surface elevation | 1,020 ft (310 m) |
Lake Buchanan was formed by the construction of Buchanan Dam by the Lower Colorado River Authority to provide a water supply for the region and to provide hydroelectric power. Buchanan Dam, a structure over 2 mi (3.2 km) in length, was completed in 1939. Lake Buchanan was the first of the Texas Highland Lakes to be formed. With 23,200 acres (94 km²) of surface water, it is also the largest. The surface of the lake includes area in both Burnet County and Llano County. The lake is west of the city of Burnet, Texas.
The other reservoirs on the Colorado River are Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Travis, Lake Austin, and Lady Bird Lake.
The lake is named for Representative James P. Buchanan (1867-1937).
[edit] Fish and wildlife populations
Lake Buchanan has been stocked with several species of fish intended to improve the utility of the reservoir for recreational fishing. Fish present in Lake Buchanan include largemouth bass, catfish, white bass, and striped bass. The lake is also the winter home for a population of over 25 bald eagles. Lake Buchanan is a level-controlled reservoir, and will not be allowed to flood during periods of heavy rain. The lake level can, however, drop significantly during periods of drought.
[edit] Recreational uses
Much of the property bordering Lake Buchanan is privately owned. Many lakeside cottages and homes are rented out on a regular basis. The Lower Colorado River Authority maintains three parks on the lake: Cedar Point Recreation Area, Black Rock Park, and Canyon of the Eagles. County parks and private marinas offer boating access to the lake. Fall Creek Winery, the oldest winery in the Texas Hill Country, is located at the confluence of Fall Creek and Lake Buchanan.
