Why did flood gates need to be open on the Highland Lakes despite the drought?

MARBLE FALLS, TX (KXAN) -- On Wednesday, September 4, thousands of gallons of water poured through the flood gates at Max Starcke and Wirtz Dams. It was the second time in six weeks the dams had to open their gates.Max Starcke Dam floodgates partially opened Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)While this summer has been dry, flood gates having to be open during this time period isn't unusual, according to the LCRA."Because Lake LBJ is a hydroelectric (dam) and a source of cooling w