Lake Conroe is a reservoir on the West Fork of the San Jacinto River in the U.S. state of Texas. It is located in Montgomery and Walker counties, approximately 40 miles north of Houston. The lake has a surface area of 22,000 acres and a shoreline of 157 miles.
History
The history of Lake Conroe dates back to the early 19th century, when the area was inhabited by the Caddo and Cherokee tribes. In 1836, the Republic of Texas granted land to the Conroe family, who established a settlement on the banks of the San Jacinto River. The settlement grew slowly, and it was not until the discovery of oil in the area in the early 20th century that the town of Conroe began to grow rapidly.
In the 1960s, the City of Houston began to experience a water shortage. To address this problem, the city and the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) began planning for the construction of a new reservoir. In 1968, the SJRA reached an agreement with the city and the TWDB to jointly construct a water supply reservoir on the West Fork of the San Jacinto River. The dam was completed in 1973, and the lake was filled by 1974.
Recreation
Lake Conroe is a popular destination for recreation. The lake offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. There are also a number of parks and recreation areas located along the lakeshore.
Fishing
Lake Conroe is a popular destination for fishing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish. Darrell has been taking people fishing on Lake Conroe since 1980.
Boating
Lake Conroe is a popular destination for boating. The lake is large enough to accommodate a variety of boats, from small fishing boats to large yachts. There are a number of marinas located along the lakeshore that offer boat rentals and other services.
Swimming
Lake Conroe is a popular destination for swimming. The lake has a number of designated swimming areas, as well as a number of private beaches. There are also a number of waterparks located near the lake.
Camping
Lake Conroe is a popular destination for camping. There are a number of state parks and national forests located near the lake that offer camping facilities. There are also a number of private campgrounds located along the lakeshore.
Economy
Lake Conroe has a significant impact on the local economy. The lake provides jobs in the fishing, boating, and tourism industries. The lake also provides a source of water for the City of Houston and other communities in the area.
Environmental Impact
Lake Conroe has had a significant impact on the environment. The lake has flooded a number of wetlands and forests, and it has changed the flow of the San Jacinto River. The lake has also contributed to the growth of algae blooms in the river.
Conclusion
Lake Conroe is a popular destination for recreation and a significant economic driver for the region. However, the lake has also had a negative impact on the environment. It is important to balance the recreational and economic benefits of the lake with the need to protect the environment.
