The Lower Colorado River on Thursday expanded the area of Lake Travis that is closed for air support for firefighting efforts.

The lake now is closed for five miles – from Mansfield Dam to Mile Marker 5 to allow air support a safe place to draw water to fight area wildfires. LCRA will keep that portion of the lake closed until water from the lake is no longer needed for firefighting efforts.

The remainder of the lake is open.

Mansfield Dam Park, which is operated by Travis County, is open but the public boat ramp at the park is temporarily closed.

LCRA made the decision to close a portion of the lake after careful deliberation.

We are aware the closure may be an inconvenience to some, but LCRA is committed to assisting firefighting efforts in any way possible to help save lives and property.

LCRA also has closed three parks and nature centers in Bastrop County because of the nearby wildfires. The McKinney Roughs park and nature center, and North Shore and South Shore parks will remain closed through the weekend. On Monday, LCRA staff will assess conditions for next week.

The parks have not been damaged by fire, but utility infrastructure has been affected. In addition, the threat of wildfires remains.