Arlington Dam

Beneath the Texas sun, Arlington Dam stands as a testament to Arlington’s vision. Arlington Dam isn’t just a concrete barrier. It’s a linchpin, holding back the waters of Village Creek and forming Arlington Reservoir. This 1,939-acre reservoir, created in 1957 by the City of Arlington, serves multiple purposes. It controls flooding, supplies water, and offers recreational opportunities. Arlington Dam is nestled within the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Its location underscores its importance to the region. The reservoir stretches approximately 3.8 miles long and 1.6 miles at its widest point. It boasts a 20-mile shoreline. The reservoir’s water level is maintained at 550 feet above sea level. Village Creek provides water from a 143 square-mile watershed. The reservoir also receives a significant water boost. An average of 30,426 acre-feet of water is purchased annually from the Tarrant Regional Water District. This water is pumped from Cedar Creek and Richland-Chambers Reservoirs. An interesting feature of Arlington Dam is the presence of a natural gas power plant operated by Exelon. This plant discharges hot water into the west side of the reservoir. The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality classifies the reservoir as Eutrophic. Arlington Dam and the resulting reservoir offer ample access for anglers and boaters, with three boat ramps and handicapped-accessible facilities. The shoreline is dotted with parks, providing additional access points. The reservoir’s habitat is diverse. American Water-Willow and Button Bush thrive along the edges, alongside riprap and rocky shorelines. The fish population in Arlington Reservoir is diverse and closely monitored. Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and White Crappie are key sport fish. All are managed under statewide regulations. Regular surveys track their populations and inform management strategies. Interestingly, in 2023, two Blue Catfish were recorded in the reservoir for the first time. Arlington Dam represents a story of foresight and adaptation. Its creation transformed Village Creek and provided essential resources to a rapidly growing region. From flood control to recreation, Arlington Dam remains a vital part of the Arlington landscape.