Urban Lakes
Nestled throughout Fort Worth are small lakes that serve as habitats for a variety of aquatic life and are an aesthetic and recreational resource. These "urban lakes" are less than 20 acres with an average depth of less than 20 feet.
Water quality
The primary source of water for these urban lakes and other regional lakes is runoff from surrounding watersheds - the areas surrounding the lake that drains toward it. Managing water quality is a challenge because stormwater runoff is not treated as it makes it way from streets to streams to rivers and lakes.
Litter, pesticides, fertilizers, detergents, pet waste, paint, automotive fluids and household chemicals dumped anywhere in the surrounding watershed can make their way into the lakes. Residents can help maintain and improve water quality by preventing stormwater pollution.
The City of Fort Worth's Environmental Quality Division has been part of several state and federal programs to help monitor and protect the waters of its urban lakes.
Lake Guide
1. Lake Como
Built in 1889 as a recreation resort, Lake Como is 10.1 acres and is located a few blocks south of Interstate 30 and west of Hulen St. It drains 743 acres in its watershed.
2. Echo Lake
Echo Lake was built in 1919 by the International and Great Northern Railroad Company. Echo Lake is located in southeast Fort Worth, two blocks east of Interstate 35W and south of Berry St. The 16.8 acre lake drains 632 acres in its watershed.
3. Fosdic Lake
Built between 1909 and 1912, Fosdic Lake is a 7-acre lake located in east Fort Worth's Oakland Lake Park and drains 262 acres in its watershed.
4. French Lake
Located in south Fort Worth, near Hulen St. and Sycamore School Rd., French Lake is 3 acres and drains 462 acres in its watershed.
5. Greenbriar Lake
Located in Greenbriar Park west of Hemphill Street and just north of Interstate 20, Greenbriar Lake is a 3-acre lake that drains 914 acres in its watershed.
Fishing Advisories
The City of Fort Worth recommends catch and release fishing at all lakes where fishing is allowed.
Several state agencies maintain information on fishing bans and advisories.