Bareti Lake

Bareti Lake: The Variable Lake of the Tsalka Plateau

Bareti Lake, located on the Bareti Plateau in the Tsalka Municipality of the Kvemo Kartli region, is a unique body of water of landslide origin. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1612 meters above sea level, this lake is known for its unstable hydrological regime. Its water level fluctuates significantly with the seasons, depending on the amount of precipitation, snowmelt, and groundwater. In the spring, the lake reaches its maximum size, while in hot, dry summers, it can shrink considerably or dry up completely, earning it the nickname “flickering” or “disappearing lake.” Bareti Lake has no surface outflow; water filters into karstic sinkholes. Ecologically, the lake and its surrounding wetlands are a crucial stopover for migratory birds, which rest and feed here. The lake’s water is rich in aquatic vegetation, creating favorable conditions for waterfowl and amphibians. Human activity is mainly limited to using the surrounding areas for grazing. With its variable nature and ecological significance, Bareti Lake is an interesting site for both nature lovers and ornithologists who observe bird migration here.

Identification and Location

• Name: Bareti Lake.
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Kvemo Kartli
  • Municipality: Tsalka
• Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Located near the village of Bareti on the Tsalka Plateau.
• Coordinates: Approximately 41°35′ N, 44°00′ E.
• Connections: Fed by snow, rain, and groundwater. It has no permanent inflows or outflows.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Variable, up to a maximum of 1.24 square kilometers.
• Maximum Depth: Shallow, around 1.8 – 2 meters.
• Average Depth: Very shallow, approximately 1 meter.
• Volume: Insignificant and highly variable.
• Altitude: Approximately 1612 meters above sea level.
• Water Source(s): Atmospheric precipitation, snowmelt, groundwater.
• Outflow(s): No surface outflow, water seeps underground.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Formed by a landslide that dammed a river valley.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Rich in aquatic macrophytes. Surrounded by high-mountain steppes and meadows used for grazing.
• Fauna: The lake has a small fish population but is rich in amphibians and invertebrates. It is a crucial habitat for waterfowl and migratory birds (ducks, geese, cranes).
• Trophic Level: Eutrophic (nutrient-rich) due to its shallowness.
• Water Clarity: Low, due to aquatic vegetation and sediment.
• Unique Ecological Features: A seasonally variable (“disappearing”) lake; an important ornithological point.
• Conservation Status: Not included in protected areas, but its ecological value is high.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: A natural site of local importance.
• Current Use: Primarily used for grazing and watering livestock. It is a subject of growing interest for ecotourism and birdwatching.
• Environmental Issues: Vulnerable to climate change, which could cause it to dry up more frequently. Overgrazing can damage the shoreline ecosystem.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: No specific management plans exist.
• Local Communities: The lake is a natural resource for local livestock farming.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Known as a “disappearing” or “flickering” lake.
• Its water level and area change drastically depending on the season.
• It is a crucial stopover for migratory birds.
• No river flows into or out of it.