Feel the cool spray of Smithers Lake Dam. It’s a marvel of engineering isn’t it? A testament to human ingenuity. Smithers Lake Dam wasn’t just built; it was born out of necessity. Houston Lighting and Power Company needed a reliable water source. This wasn’t just any lake. This was a crucial part of the W A Parish Generating Station. The station needed this cooling water supply. Construction began in 1956. It was a massive undertaking completed just a year later in July 1957.
Smithers Lake Dam is situated ten miles southeast of Richmond in Fort Bend County. It sits on Dry Creek a tributary of the Big Creek which flows into the mighty Brazos River. But the story of Smithers Lake Dam is not simply about construction and completion. It’s about strategic planning. It involved securing water rights. Permit number 1812 was granted in February 1956. It allowed the company to harness the power of nature for their energy needs.
The lake’s capacity is a staggering 18000 acre feet. That’s a vast amount of water. Its surface area covers a remarkable 2480 acres. The lake’s elevation is precisely sixty-six feet above mean sea level. This is not merely a pretty reservoir. It’s a vital cog in the machinery of a city’s energy infrastructure. It’s a silent giant doing its job day in and day out.
The water levels are carefully monitored. They need to maintain a certain elevation for the plant’s operation. Runoff alone isn’t enough. Smart planning was crucial. The Richmond Rice Association helps. They provide additional water through their canal system. This ensures the dam always has what it needs. Smithers Lake Dam is an unsung hero. It provides essential support for Houston’s power. It demonstrates a clever partnership between a power company and agricultural interests.
The story of Smithers Lake Dam is a testament to human ambition. It’s a story of collaboration. It’s a story of resourcefulness. This is a story written in water. It’s a story you can only truly appreciate standing here before this magnificent dam. It’s a story that continues to unfold with every drop of water that flows through its depths. It’s a vital part of the story of this area. And today you are a part of its story too.