Karagoli Lake

Karagoli Lake, situated in the Kvemo Kartli region of Georgia within Dmanisi Municipality, is a charming, small body of water nestled on the expansive Gomareti Plateau. Located near the village of Ganakhleba, this lake sits at an elevation of approximately 1560 meters above sea level. Unlike its namesake lakes found in higher mountainous regions like Borjomi-Kharagauli or Adjara, this Karagoli offers a different kind of beauty, characterized by open spaces, rolling fields, and meadows surrounding its shores. It’s part of a cluster of several small lakes found across the plateau, including Lailagioli and Tambulgioli, making the area interesting for those looking to explore multiple natural water features within a relatively short distance. The lake itself is relatively small and likely shallow, fed primarily by local precipitation and groundwater typical of plateau environments. Its primary significance lies in its scenic contribution to the Gomareti Plateau landscape and its role as a spot for local recreation and relaxation amidst picturesque surroundings. While not a major tourist destination compared to larger lakes or national parks, it offers a tranquil setting and attractive views for visitors exploring the Dmanisi area, which is also renowned for its significant archaeological findings nearby.

Identification and Location

• Name: Karagoli Lake (კარაგოლის ტბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Kvemo Kartli
  • Municipality: Dmanisi Municipality
  • Nearest Landmark: Located on the Gomareti Plateau, near the village of Ganakhleba. The historically significant Dmanisi archaeological site is also within the same municipality, though not immediately adjacent to the lake.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41°27′ N latitude, 44°12′ E longitude (Coordinates are approximate for the general area on the plateau).
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: Part of a group of small lakes on the Gomareti Plateau, situated close to other lakes such as Lailagioli, Tambulgioli, Kainegoli, and Chamligoli. It is not directly connected to a major river system.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Described as a small lake; specific quantitative data is not widely published.
• Maximum Depth: Likely relatively shallow, characteristic of small plateau lakes; precise figures are not commonly available.
• Average Depth: Data not available.
• Volume: Data not available.
• Elevation: Approximately 1560 meters (around 5118 feet) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Relatively short, corresponding to its small size.
• Water Source(s): Primarily precipitation (rain, snowmelt) and groundwater from the surrounding plateau.
• Outlet(s): Likely lacks significant surface outlets; water loss primarily through evaporation and seepage.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Situated on the volcanic Gomareti Plateau; the basin is likely a natural depression within this geological formation.

Ecological Information

• Flora (Plant Life): Shoreline vegetation typically consists of grasses, reeds, and meadow plants characteristic of the open plateau landscape. Aquatic vegetation may be present but specifics are not detailed in general sources.
• Fauna (Animal Life): May support amphibians, various insects, and potentially attract local birdlife. Information on fish species or mammal activity specifically linked to this small lake is limited. The surrounding plateau supports typical regional fauna.
• Trophic Level: Specific classification (oligotrophic, mesotrophic, eutrophic) requires detailed study, but small plateau lakes can range depending on nutrient inputs.
• Water Clarity: Generally described through scenic value rather than specific metrics like Secchi depth.
• Water Temperature: Subject to seasonal variation, likely warming significantly in summer compared to high-altitude lakes, and potentially freezing in winter.
• pH Levels & Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Specific data is not readily available.
• Unique Ecological Features: Its location as part of a cluster of plateau lakes is its main distinguishing feature.
• Conservation Status: No specific major conservation designations are widely reported for the lake itself, though it falls within the broader landscape of Kvemo Kartli.
• Invasive Species: No specific information available regarding invasive species impacts.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: While the lake itself doesn’t hold specific documented historical events, its location within Dmanisi Municipality places it in a region of immense paleoanthropological and archaeological importance (Dmanisi Hominids).
• Current Uses: Primarily local recreation, relaxation, picnicking, and enjoying the natural scenery. Not used for drinking water, irrigation, or power. Fishing potential is likely minimal and not a primary use.
• Environmental Issues: Potential impacts could arise from local agricultural activities (if any nearby) or unregulated visitor activity, though it’s not reported as facing major environmental threats.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed under the general environmental regulations of Dmanisi Municipality and Georgia. No large-scale specific conservation projects are noted.
• Local Communities: Serves as a natural amenity for residents of nearby villages like Ganakhleba and visitors to the Dmanisi area.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Karagoli Lake on the Gomareti Plateau is notable for being part of a system of several small, closely situated lakes, allowing visitors to easily see multiple lakes in one trip.
• Its setting amidst open fields offers different scenery compared to the forest-enclosed mountain lakes often found elsewhere in Georgia.
• The name “Karagoli” (likely meaning “Black Lake”) contrasts somewhat with its setting in open, often sunny, plateau landscape, unlike its darker, higher-altitude namesakes.