Gokhnari Lake

Gokhnari Lake (გოხნარის ტბა), more accurately described as Gokhnari Reservoir (გოხნარის წყალსაცავი), is an artificial body of water located in the Shida Kartli region of Georgia. It lies within the Kaspi Municipality, situated near the village of Gokhnari. Created likely during the Soviet era by damming a small local river or stream (potentially a tributary within the Tedzami or Mtkvari river basins), its primary purpose is generally understood to be water storage for local needs, particularly irrigation of surrounding agricultural lands, and possibly fish farming or providing a source for recreational fishing.

The reservoir is relatively small, likely covering less than a square kilometer, with characteristics typical of such artificial water bodies in foothill regions. Its elevation is moderate, probably around 700-900 meters above sea level. Fed by the dammed stream and local runoff, it contains freshwater.

Gokhnari Reservoir is primarily known locally as a destination for angling, likely stocked with or naturally supporting common fish species like carp. While not a major tourist attraction, it offers recreational opportunities for nearby residents, including fishing and possibly picnicking along its shores. The surrounding landscape likely consists of a mix of agricultural fields, orchards, meadows, and patches of forest or scrubland. Due to its function as a reservoir, its water levels may fluctuate depending on usage and seasonal precipitation.

Identification and Location:

• Name: Gokhnari Lake (გოხნარის ტბა) or Gokhnari Reservoir (გოხნარის წყალსაცავი).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Shida Kartli
  • Municipality: Kaspi
  • Nearest Major Landmark: Near the village of Gokhnari. West/Northwest of Tbilisi.
  • Coordinates: Precise coordinates not readily available, but located near Gokhnari village (approx. 41.9° N, 44.4° E vicinity).
• Relationship to other bodies of water: Artificial reservoir created by damming a local stream/river, likely within the Tedzami or Mtkvari river system.

Physical Characteristics:

• Surface Area: Data unavailable; assumed small for a reservoir (likely < 1 km²).
• Maximum Depth: Data unavailable; likely relatively shallow.
• Average Depth: Data unavailable.
• Volume: Data unavailable.
• Elevation: Data unavailable; estimated moderate elevation $\approx 700-900\text{ m}$ above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Data unavailable; dependent on reservoir shape.
• Water Source(s): Dammed stream/river, local runoff, precipitation.
• Outlet(s): Controlled release via dam structure for irrigation or downstream flow.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Artificial basin constructed within a natural valley. Surrounding area is part of Shida Kartli’s geology.

Ecological Information:

• Flora (Plant Life): Surrounding landscape likely includes agricultural land, meadows, scrub, possibly deciduous forest patches. Aquatic vegetation (reeds, submerged plants) common in shallow zones of reservoirs.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Likely supports common freshwater fish suitable for the climate (e.g., Carp, Crucian Carp), potentially stocked for angling. Attracts local birdlife, amphibians, and reptiles common to the region.
• Trophic Level: Likely Mesotrophic to Eutrophic, common for artificial reservoirs in agricultural settings.
• Water Clarity: Data unavailable; likely variable depending on inflow, season, and potential algal blooms.
• Water Temperature: Seasonal variation typical of moderate elevations in Georgia. Warms significantly in summer. Ice cover possible but likely intermittent or partial during cold winters. Currently (late April), water is cool but ice-free.
• pH Levels: Data unavailable.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Data unavailable; variable.
• Unique Ecological Features: None specifically known; typical ecosystem of a small regional reservoir.
• Conservation Status: No specific conservation status expected.
• Invasive Species: Data unavailable.

Human Interaction and Significance:

• Historical Significance: Reservoir is likely of relatively recent (e.g., Soviet era) construction. The nearby village and area may have older historical sites (like churches).
• Current Uses: Primary use is likely irrigation and local water storage. Popular for recreational fishing. May be used for limited local recreation like picnics.
• Environmental Issues: Potential for sedimentation, water level fluctuations, eutrophication due to agricultural runoff (fertilizers/pesticides), and potential pollution from local sources.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Likely managed by Georgian Amelioration agency or Kaspi Municipality, primarily for water resource management. Fishing permits/regulations may apply.
• Local Communities: Serves as a water source supporting local agriculture and provides recreational fishing opportunities for residents of Gokhnari and nearby villages.

Interesting or Unique Facts:

• An artificial reservoir, not a natural lake.
• Located near the village of Gokhnari in Kaspi Municipality.
• Primarily serves practical purposes like irrigation.
• Known locally as a fishing spot.
• Accessible for most of the year, unlike high-altitude lakes.