Public access to the boat ramp at Lake Walter E. Long will be closed effective Sunday, October 1, 2023, as the lake level is too low to safely allow boating. Operational decisions about lake access are made in collaboration with Austin Energy, Austin Water and the Lower Colorado River Authority. 

The lake level is maintained by pumping water from the Colorado River. Flows from the Colorado River have been insufficient to allow pumping into Lake Walter E. Long due to lack of local rainfall and reduced inflows into the Highland Lakes.

Austin Energy, Austin Water and Austin Parks and Recreation will continue to monitor available Colorado River flows and will resume pumping operations when conditions allow the boat ramp to reopen safely. The City appreciates everyone’s patience and understanding.