Vitality: the Power of Endurance

Abstract

The Brazos River is formed by the confluence of the Double Mountain and Salt Fork rivers in the Panhandle and continues across Texas for 840 miles, emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. While the Brazos river is the eleventh longest river in the United States, it is one of the longest rivers encompassed in a single state. An impressive feat with its own set of consequences. Rivers of similar length are typically supported by two or more states, which means the Brazos only receives funding from one state rather than multiple entities. Adding to the hurdles the Brazos river faces, the river is known for having muddy unruly waters. South of Waco, it is advised to not swim in the waters due to the bacterial composition of the water. This presents a challenge for recreation on the river's water. The importance of this natural resource combined with the familiar obstacles of the river are what inspired this project. Lock and Dam #3 on the Brazos River is the chosen site for this project, located roughly seven miles outside of the City of Hearne in Robertson County, is one of the four remaining locks and dams on the river that were constructed in 1915-1917 as part of the largest Progressive-Era project on the Brazos. The history of this lock is plagued with more than just man's attempt to control nature. The lock itself extends beyond an inanimate, unnatural formation in the muddy water. There was a delicate dance between acknowledging the unfavorable motives behind the conception of the lock, and Vitality's goal to bring attraction to the Brazos and celebrate the river itself.