Inspiring the Will to Revitalize a Reservoir

The Lake Wichita Revitalization Project has been established with several key project partners; City of Wichita Falls, City of Lakeside City, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation, and the Lake Wichita Chapter of Friends of Reservoirs. Together these organizations have led a grass roots effort that has been growing in political, financial, and public support for a holistic plan to revitalize the lake. Partners and the public have varied interests but all have agreed that without rebuilding the lake of sufficient quality to support a fisheries resource, no other desires for amenities at the lake matter. This project includes a dry excavation of 7-million cubic yards of sediment, bathymetric construction that minimizes evaporation during drought, watershed restoration, placement of a plethora of fish habitat, fish restocking, fishing access, commercial development, recreational amenities, and wildlife viewing. This presentation will focus on the grass roots process and efforts that is leading to the success of this holistic and integrated lake revitalization; including inspiring partners, politicians, civic organizations, philanthropists, and the general public to actively work for the successful revitalization of the lake.