Bateti Lake

Bateti Lake is a small, enchanting body of water nestled within the forests of Georgia’s Shida Kartli region. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, it has become a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers. The lake was formed relatively recently in geological terms due to a landslide, which dammed a small stream, creating the basin. Its most unique and captivating feature is the presence of surface vegetation mats, often referred to as “floating islands,” composed primarily of sphagnum moss and other aquatic plants. These mats, while rooted, give the lake a distinctive appearance, especially when viewed against the backdrop of the dense, mixed forest surrounding its shores. Located at a moderate elevation, the lake offers a cool retreat, particularly vibrant during autumn when the foliage turns spectacular shades of red and gold. Though small in size, its accessibility via a hiking trail and its picturesque setting make Bateti Lake a cherished natural landmark in the Kareli Municipality. It serves primarily as a site for recreation and appreciating the pristine mountain environment.

Identification and Location

• Name: Bateti Lake (Georgian: ბატეთის ტბა)
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Shida Kartli
  • Municipality: Kareli
  • Nearest Village: Kodmani
  • Nearest Major Town: Kareli
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41∘54′ N latitude, 43∘49′ E longitude.
• Connections: It is primarily fed by groundwater and small mountain streams/springs, with likely a minor outflow stream. It is not part of a larger river or lake system.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Very small, approximately 0.02 square kilometers (2 hectares or about 4.9 acres).
• Maximum Depth: Reported to be around 12 meters.
• Average Depth: Likely around 7 meters.
• Volume: Relatively small due to its limited area and depth.
• Elevation: Approximately 1313 meters above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Short, reflecting its small surface area.
• Water Source(s): Groundwater, precipitation, small inflow streams.
• Outlet(s): Likely a small stream, particularly active during periods of high water.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Landslide-dammed lake; formed when a landslide blocked a small valley or stream.

Ecological Information

• Flora: The lake is surrounded by dense mixed forest dominated by beech, hornbeam, and maple trees. Aquatic vegetation includes reeds and water lilies. The notable feature is the surface mats primarily composed of sphagnum moss and other rooted aquatic plants. The southern part of the lake tends to be swampy with abundant aquatic vegetation.
• Fauna: The lake and surrounding forest support various wildlife. Fish species likely include smaller native fish; trout presence is sometimes mentioned. Amphibians are common, including frogs and the near-threatened Southern Banded Newt (Ommatotriton ophryticus, also known as Asia Minor Triton), which is listed in Georgia’s Red Book and found near the lake. Forest birds, small mammals (rodents, foxes), reptiles (lizards, grass snakes) inhabit the surrounding area.
• Trophic Level: Likely ranges from Oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) to Mesotrophic (moderate nutrients), influenced by the forest setting and organic matter from vegetation mats.
• Water Clarity: Generally clear and transparent, although visibility can be reduced near the vegetation mats or after rainfall.
• Water Temperature: Varies seasonally; it freezes over in winter (typically December to March) and remains cool even in summer due to the altitude and forest shade.
• pH Levels: Likely near neutral to slightly acidic.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Generally sufficient to support aquatic life, varying with depth and season.
• Unique Ecological Features: The prominent sphagnum moss mats (“floating islands”) and the habitat it provides. Presence of the Southern Banded Newt.
• Conservation Status: The lake itself doesn’t have a specific high-level protected status like a national park, but it’s valued as a natural monument within the broader landscape. Conservation relies on general environmental protection principles and responsible tourism. The Southern Banded Newt found here is a species of conservation concern.
• Invasive Species: No major invasive species problems are widely documented.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Primarily significant as a natural landmark; no major known archaeological or historical events are tied directly to the lake itself. The surrounding Dzama Gorge has numerous historical monasteries.
• Current Uses: Dominated by recreation – hiking, picnicking, nature observation, photography, and camping in designated nearby areas. Fishing and swimming are generally discouraged or forbidden. It is not used for drinking water supply, irrigation, or power generation. Tourism is a key use, attracting both locals and international visitors.
• Environmental Issues: Potential impacts include littering and trail erosion from increasing visitor numbers. Natural sedimentation is an ongoing process in landslide lakes. Potential long-term impacts from climate change on water levels and temperature regimes. There have been discussions or reports about potentially introducing entrance fees by private landowners in the area.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Local authorities and visitor awareness campaigns encourage responsible tourism (pack-in, pack-out waste policies). Management focuses on maintaining trails and mitigating tourism impacts. Signage often requests visitors not to litter.
• Local Communities: The lake serves as a point of pride and a recreational resource for residents of nearby villages and Kareli. It supports some local tourism-related activities (guides, transport, guesthouses in the broader Dzama Valley area).

Interesting or Unique Facts

• The lake’s most famous feature is the “floating islands,” which are actually thick mats of rooted vegetation (mainly sphagnum moss) growing out from the edges or shallows.
• It was formed by a natural landslide, making it a relatively young geological feature.
• Its location requires a hike (typically around 3-5 km round trip depending on the exact starting point) through the forest, adding to its appeal as a nature destination away from roads. Off-road vehicle access gets closer but doesn’t reach the lake shore directly.
• The lake is particularly renowned for its beauty during the autumn season when the surrounding deciduous forest displays vibrant colors.
• The presence of the Southern Banded Newt adds ecological significance.