Lake Whitney Dam - Whitney, Texas
N 31° 52.000 W 097° 22.272
14R E 654080 N 3526813
Whitney Lake was originally authorized by Congress in 1941. However, when the U.S. became involved in World War II, the funding was taken away because all resources were needed for the war effort. The dam was completed in 1953.
Waymark Code: WM5QY2
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 02/04/2009
Views: 22
From Wikpedia;
Lake Whitney is the only flood control reservoir on the main stem of the Brazos River in the state of Texas. It is located on River Mile Marker 442 and controls drainage for 17,656 square miles (45,730 km2) of Texas and parts of New Mexico. A noted lake for many different types of fishing, it is located 80 miles (130 km) south of Fort Worth and 29 miles (47 km) north of Waco. The man made reservoir encompasses 37 square miles (96 km2) and 225 miles (362 km) of shoreline that varies from 100 ft (30 m) tall white bluffs to low lying sandy beaches.
History
The Whitney Dam was authorized by the county in 1944 to improve flood control and as a way to create power generation for the surrounding areas. The reservoir project began in earnest in 1946. The dam was opened in 1951 while construction of the power plant was completed afterwards and began operation in 1953. Today the Army Corps of Engineers maintains the dam and the surrounding parks, such as Soldiers Bluff, Lofers Bend, McCown Valley and Kimball Bend Parks.
The lake has many choices of accommodations for visitors, ranging from quaint "Mom & Pop" resorts to B&B's. Many offer boat rentals, fine dining, and year-round recreation. The Texas Legislature named Lake Whitney as the Official Getaway Capital of the state in 2005.
Recreation
The lake is well recognized by local residents as a popular recreational destination (due to its proximity to both Waco and the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex) and is home to numerous parks and marinas. Due to the wide and open area of the lake, water skiers are prevalent in the widest parts of the lakes nearest the dam. Bass fishing, just one of the many types of fishing that can be done at the lake, has produced many trophy fish and holds two state records.
Some Photos in the Gallery were uploaded from the US Army Corps of Engineers Website. www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/whitney
Waterway where the dam is located: Brazos River
Main use of the Water Dam: Flood Control
Material used in the structure: Concrete
Height of Dam: 449 feet
Date built: 12/15/1951
Fishing Allowed: yes
Motor Sports Allowed: yes
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Visit Instructions:
Photo of the Dam and a description of your visit.