Mtsvane Tba

About this activity

Mtsvane Tba, or the “Green Lake,” is a picturesque mountain lake situated in the highlands of the Adjara Autonomous Republic in Georgia. Located within the Khulo Municipality on the northern slopes of the Arsiani Range, it lies near the well-known Goderdzi Pass and the Beshumi summer resort, at an elevation of approximately 2058 meters (6752 feet). As its name suggests, the lake is renowned for its distinct, beautiful green hue, which contrasts attractively with the surrounding dense forests and alpine meadows.

The lake itself is quite small, with a surface area of around 5 hectares (0.05 km²) and a maximum depth reported to be between 17 and 19 meters. It’s believed to be fed by underground springs, snowmelt, and rainfall, and likely drains via a small stream into the region’s river systems. The basin might have been formed by a landslide or glacial activity common in mountain ranges.

Mtsvane Tba is a popular destination, especially during the summer months, attracting visitors for its natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and recreational opportunities like picnicking, camping, and hiking in the surrounding forests. While swimming is possible, the water remains very cold even in summer. Fishing for trout is sometimes mentioned, although other sources claim the lake is fishless; its status might be variable or subject to regulation. Access is typically via the road leading over Goderdzi Pass (seasonal accessibility) followed by a short walk or hike to the lake shore. Due to its altitude and the region’s climate, the lake is frozen and covered in deep snow throughout the winter and much of the spring.

Identification and Location:

• Name: Mtsvane Tba (მწვანე ტბა – Green Lake).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Adjara Autonomous Republic
  • Municipality: Khulo
  • Nearest Major Landmark: Located near Goderdzi Pass (connecting Adjara and Samtskhe-Javakheti), Beshumi resort, on the northern slope of the Arsiani Range.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41.64∘ N latitude, 42.52∘ E longitude (approximate).
• Relationship to other bodies of water: Mountain lake, likely the source of a small stream draining into local river systems.

Physical Characteristics:

• Surface Area: ≈0.05 km2 (5 hectares or approx. 12 acres).
• Maximum Depth: Reported as $\approx 17-19\text{ m}$ (approx. 56-62 ft).
• Average Depth: Data not readily available, likely significantly less than the maximum.
• Volume: Data not readily available, relatively small.
• Elevation: $\approx 2058\text{ m}$ (approx. 6752 ft) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Short, likely around 1 km. Surrounded by forest and meadows.
• Water Source(s): Snowmelt, rainfall, underground springs. Water is noted as slightly mineralized and potable.
• Outlet(s): Likely a small outflowing stream.
• Water Type: Freshwater, noted for its distinct green colour.
• Basin Geology: Potentially landslide-dammed or of glacial origin on the Arsiani Range. Some sources mention volcanic origin evidenced by black rocks at the bottom.

Ecological Information:

• Flora (Plant Life): Surrounded by coniferous (spruce, fir) and subalpine forests and meadows. Some sources suggest minimal algae.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Reports conflict: some mention Trout, possibly introduced; others state the lake is lifeless (no fish or algae). Confirmation needed. Area supports typical forest/mountain fauna of Adjara, including birds, small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.
• Trophic Level: Likely Oligotrophic (nutrient-poor), especially if fishless and fed by springs.
• Water Clarity: Generally clear and transparent near the shore, deepens to characteristic green.
• Water Temperature: Cold year-round. Does not freeze completely according to some sources, which is unusual for its altitude but possibly due to spring inputs. Still very cold and snow-covered in winter/spring. Suitable only for very brief dips in high summer.
• pH Levels: Data not available; likely near-neutral.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Data not available.
• Unique Ecological Features: The distinct green colour of the water. High-altitude lake ecosystem. Reports of it not freezing completely in winter are unusual if accurate. Potable spring-fed water.
• Conservation Status: No major specific designation widely reported, but located in an area valued for its natural beauty and potentially part of broader regional conservation initiatives.
• Invasive Species: No specific reports readily available.

Human Interaction and Significance:

• Historical Significance: Known to local populations, potentially used in relation to seasonal high-pasture farming (associated with nearby Beshumi resort).
• Current Uses: Popular destination for tourism and recreation: hiking, picnicking, camping, photography. Accessible during summer/early autumn from Goderdzi Pass road (may require 4×4 or walk from pass). Boats/water bikes sometimes available for rent seasonally. Swimming (briefly) possible. Fishing status unclear/possibly restricted or non-existent.
• Environmental Issues: Vulnerable to impacts from increasing tourism (litter, campsite damage, water quality). Seasonal road access over Goderdzi Pass can be challenging and damage prone. Fire risk in surrounding forests during dry periods.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Likely managed under the Khulo Municipality and regional environmental/forestry services. Specific regulations for visitor conduct may apply.
• Local Communities: The lake contributes to the tourism appeal of the Goderdzi Pass and Beshumi resort area, potentially providing seasonal income opportunities (transport, accommodation, food). Interaction with local shepherds in summer is possible.

Interesting or Unique Facts:

• Its name directly translates to “Green Lake,” reflecting its characteristic water colour, attributed to the surrounding forest and possibly minerals.
• Located at a high altitude (over 2000m) near the Goderdzi Pass ski resort area.
• Some reports claim it doesn’t freeze completely in winter, despite the cold temperatures, possibly due to spring activity (this needs verification).
• Some sources claim it contains no fish or even algae, while others mention trout.
• Water is considered potable (drinkable) as it’s fed by springs.
• It’s important to distinguish this lake from the Mtsvane Tba (Green Lake) of the Abudelauri lake system in Khevsureti.