The 48 acres of Ascarate Lake are about one-eighth of Ascarate Park’s 400 acres, but for many, it is the central attraction for El Paso’s premier regional park, drawing fishers, boaters, walkers and joggers, and people who are just drawn to the body of water.
This body of water is unique in El Paso. From the best fishing in the area to a boardwalk and boat dock, El Pasoans and guests can enjoy active recreation, or just go for a walk around the lake, enjoying the varieties of birds and resting under the shade of a tree.
But the lake faces serious challenges — including water loss, algae blooms and sediment buildup that threaten its beauty, water quality and aquatic life. Further, the banks need shoring up, and the overall lakeshore needs improving.
To address these issues, the County committed $6 million in late 2023, and in early 2024 hired consulting firm AECOM to investigate conditions and options in more detail.
That preparation has resulted in a framework for action. Last week, we had a public meeting to explain the conditions and options, and to begin a community engagement process that we expect will result in a final plan before the end of the year, with work to begin early next year.
The 2024 study identified ways to address issues with the lake, including the golden algae bloom that kills fish and harms wildlife, and sediment accumulation in specific locations in the lake.
Based on the work, the county has concluded that:
- Dredging is not a guaranteed solution. While it may seem like a straightforward fix, dredging would not address the root causes of algae blooms, such as nutrient runoff and temperature changes. Without addressing these underlying issues, algae will likely continue to return.
- Potential harm to wildlife and habitat. Dredging can severely disrupt aquatic habitats, displace wildlife, and negatively affect water quality during and after the process. Given the ecological sensitivity of Ascarate Lake, protecting existing biodiversity is a priority.
- Sediment buildup is less severe than expected. The environmental study revealed that debris and sediment accumulation is only about 6 to 9 inches in most areas—not as significant as originally believed. This finding reduces the need for large-scale dredging and allows the County to focus on more sustainable improvement options.
The lake will remain open until a final plan is approved by the County Commissioners Court. Once construction begins, the lake could temporarily close to allow for upgrades. Nearby features, including the duck pond, will remain open during construction.
The lake is just the first part of what will be significant improvements to Ascarate Park over the next several years. Along with the funds approved by Commissioners Court, voters in November approved almost $100 million for county parks, including about $31 million for Ascarate Park improvements such as new shelters, modernizing electrical, updating parking lots and lighting, a walking trail, and festival area and stage.
Critically, as with the lake, we want to make sure that Ascarate remains the people’s park, and that we work closely with residents to deliver projects that enhance the park while maintaining its serene beauty.
We are just getting started, and I’m eager to hear from you. Please do not hesitate to contact my office at commissioner2@epcounty.com to get more information and updates, and let’s get to work together!
David Stout is the El Paso County Commissioner for Precinct 2.
