This reservoir, impounded by the completion of a dam on the Sulphur River in 1950, spans Bowie and Cass Counties in Texas. Originally named the Texarkana Reservoir, it was renamed in 1971 to honor the long-serving Texas congressman who championed its creation. The resulting body of water covers approximately 20,000 acres and has a shoreline stretching over 100 miles.
The impoundment serves multiple crucial functions. It provides a reliable water supply for surrounding communities and industries, offers significant flood control for the Sulphur River basin, and supports a thriving recreational ecosystem. Boating, fishing, and camping attract visitors from across the region, contributing to local economies. Its historical significance as a major public works project reflects the importance of water management in a rapidly developing area.