LCRA Releasing Water from Lakes

For the first time in 7 years the lower Colorado River Authority is releasing water from lakes Buchanan and Travis at the same time. The summer time water release is usually done one lake at a time, but the drought is forcing water managers to start the flow early.

"The duel draw down is really not a red flag, it is interesting, its the same amount of water taken from both reservoirs, Said LCRA Spokesperson Krista Umscheid-Ramirez

The release is to help farmers irrigate fields down stream as well as to give utility providers a stable flow of water for electricity generation. But as more water moves downstream, more islands are popping up on Lake Travis.

"It intrigues me how the soil has been above the water for so long there is green vegetation is growing, Said John Jobes who lives near the lake

LCRA managers say if there is no significant rainfall this summer, an assessment will be made in January. Mandatory water restrictions could be ordered at that time. When asked if there is enough water to make it through the summer, Umscheid-Ramirez said, all of the municipalities and businesses will be fine.