Okro Lake

Okro Lake, which translates to “Golden Lake” (ოქროს ტბა), is a small lake situated within the extensive wetlands of Kolkheti National Park in western Georgia. Located very close to the larger and more famous Paliastomi Lake and the city of Poti, Okro Lake is an integral part of this unique coastal ecosystem, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands) and a Ramsar site. Unlike the brackish Paliastomi, Okro Lake is generally considered a freshwater body, though its proximity to Paliastomi and the sea might lead to some minor influences. It shares the characteristics of the Kolkheti lowlands: very low elevation (near sea level), shallow depth, and surrounding marshy terrain rich in specific wetland flora and fauna. As part of the national park, its primary significance is ecological, providing crucial habitat for numerous resident and migratory bird species, as well as fish, amphibians, and other wildlife adapted to the Colchic environment. While much smaller than Paliastomi, it contributes to the overall biodiversity and landscape value of this internationally important protected area and can often be visited as part of boat tours exploring the park’s waterways. Note: There is also a distinct, artificial rowing basin called Okro Lake (Golden Lake) within Poti city itself; this description focuses on the natural lake within the National Park.

Identification and Location

• Name: Okro Lake (ოქროს ტბა) or Golden Lake.
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Likely Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region (or bordering Guria).
  • Municipality: Within the administrative area of Kolkheti National Park, near Poti city.
  • Nearest Landmark: Paliastomi Lake, Kolkheti National Park visitor center, City of Poti.
  • Coordinates: Precise coordinates place it very near Paliastomi Lake, within the Kolkheti National Park boundaries. Roughly 42°08′ N, 41°46′ E.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: Part of the interconnected Kolkheti wetland system. Hydrologically linked to surrounding marshes, channels, and potentially Paliastomi Lake or river systems like the Pichori.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Small compared to Paliastomi Lake. Specific area measurements are not widely cited but likely less than 1-2 sq km.
• Maximum Depth: Shallow; likely only a few meters deep, typical for lakes in the Kolkheti lowlands.
• Average Depth: Shallow. Specific data not readily available.
• Volume: Small.
• Elevation: Very low, near sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Relatively short, characterized by marshy, reedy banks.
• Water Source(s): Likely fed by precipitation, groundwater seepage from surrounding wetlands, and possibly small connecting channels or streams within the Kolkheti system.
• Outlet(s): Likely interconnected with the surrounding wetland drainage system, potentially flowing towards Paliastomi Lake or other channels leading to the Black Sea.
• Water Type: Generally considered Freshwater, although occasional slight brackish influence due to proximity to Paliastomi cannot be entirely ruled out.
• Basin Geology: Formed by natural processes within the Colchis Lowland coastal plain, likely related to alluvial deposition, former river channels, or lagoonal remnants.

Ecological Information

• Flora (Plant Life): Rich aquatic and semi-aquatic vegetation, including extensive reed beds, water lilies, and other plants adapted to shallow freshwater or slightly brackish conditions, characteristic of Colchic wetlands.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Supports diverse wetland fauna. Important habitat for water birds (similar species to Paliastomi, though perhaps in smaller numbers), including resident and migratory species (ducks, herons, egrets, potentially rails, warblers etc.). Fish populations adapted to shallow, vegetated freshwater environments likely present. Also habitat for amphibians, reptiles (water snakes, turtles), and numerous invertebrates.
• Trophic Level: Likely Eutrophic, given the shallow depth, abundant vegetation, and nutrient-rich environment of the Kolkheti lowlands.
• Water Clarity: Likely low to moderate, affected by shallow depth, sediment, and biological productivity.
• Water Temperature: Follows the mild coastal climate, rarely freezing in winter.
• pH Levels & Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Specific data not readily available. Oxygen levels may fluctuate, particularly in dense vegetation.
• Unique Ecological Features: Part of the globally significant Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands ecosystem (UNESCO World Heritage). Contributes to the biodiversity of Kolkheti National Park and Ramsar site.
• Conservation Status: Protected as part of Kolkheti National Park.
• Invasive Species: Like the surrounding area, potentially susceptible to invasive species; requires park monitoring.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Shares the general historical context of the Kolkheti region, potentially linked to ancient settlement patterns near Paliastomi/Phasis, but no specific major events are tied directly to Okro Lake itself.
• Current Uses: Primarily conservation and tourism within Kolkheti National Park. Often included in boat tour (including kayak) itineraries exploring the park’s waterways from Paliastomi or the visitor center. May be used for limited, regulated recreational fishing (piers exist).
• Environmental Issues: Subject to the broader environmental pressures affecting Kolkheti National Park, including water quality issues from upstream sources, potential impacts from nearby urban/port activities (Poti), habitat changes, and climate change effects on wetlands.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed under the regulations and conservation programs of Kolkheti National Park by the Agency of Protected Areas. Specific piers are designated for fishing/kayaking access.
• Local Communities: Primarily relevant through connection to Kolkheti National Park’s tourism and conservation activities.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Its name “Golden Lake” might originate from the color of its water/reflections at certain times, surrounding vegetation hues, or perhaps links to the Golden Fleece legend associated with Colchis.
• Located immediately adjacent to the much larger Paliastomi Lake within the boundaries of a national park.
• Can typically only be accessed via boat or designated park trails, preserving its natural setting. Kayak tours specifically operate on Okro Lake.
• Contributes to the rich mosaic of habitats within the internationally recognized Kolkheti wetlands.