Khanchali Lake

Khanchali Lake (ხანჩალის ტბა) is a unique and ecologically significant shallow lake located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of southern Georgia, specifically within the Ninotsminda Municipality. Situated on the high-altitude Javakheti volcanic plateau, it’s a key component of the Javakheti Protected Areas system, designated as the Khanchali Managed Reserve. Despite its relatively large surface area, the lake is exceptionally shallow, with depths often measuring less than a meter. This characteristic, combined with its nutrient-rich waters and extensive aquatic vegetation, creates a critically important wetland habitat. Khanchali is renowned internationally, holding Ramsar site status due to its vital role for numerous migratory and breeding water birds, including globally threatened species like the Dalmatian Pelican and significant populations of Armenian Gulls and various waterfowl. Fed by small rivers, snowmelt, and groundwater, its water level experiences significant seasonal fluctuations. The lake’s ecosystem supports rich biodiversity beyond birds, including specific plant communities adapted to its unique conditions. While facing challenges related to water management, potential agricultural impacts, and invasive species, conservation efforts focus on preserving this vital sanctuary, which is also becoming increasingly important for ecotourism, particularly birdwatching.

Identification and Location

• Name: Khanchali Lake (ხანჩალის ტბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Samtskhe-Javakheti
  • Municipality: Ninotsminda Municipality
  • Nearest Landmark: Located on the Javakheti Plateau, near villages such as Didi Khanchali and Patara Khanchali. Part of the Javakheti Protected Areas.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41°15′ N latitude, 43°38′ E longitude.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: Fed by several small rivers and streams (e.g., Agrichai River) originating on the plateau. Its main outlet is the Paravani River, which connects it hydrologically to the larger Paravani Lake system.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Approximately 13.3 square kilometers (about 5.1 square miles), though this can vary significantly with water level fluctuations. Note: Some sources mention a smaller area, potentially reflecting past drainage or measurement variations.
• Maximum Depth: Extremely shallow; often cited as being only 0.8 – 1.0 meters (less than 3 feet) at its deepest point. Some sources mention up to 1.4m.
• Average Depth: Very low, typically around 0.5 – 0.6 meters.
• Volume: Relatively small despite the surface area, due to its shallowness. Specific volume figures vary with water level.
• Elevation: Situated at approximately 1928 meters (about 6325 feet) above sea level. Some sources cite 1931m.
• Shoreline Length: Variable due to fluctuating water levels, characterized by extensive marshy areas.
• Water Source(s): Primarily fed by snowmelt, rainfall, groundwater, and inflows from small rivers/streams (up to ten minor tributaries) draining the surrounding plateau.
• Outlet(s): The Paravani River (via the Agrichai River which flows out of Khanchali).
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Located in a tectonic depression on the Javakheti volcanic plateau, potentially shaped by lava flows.

Ecological Information

• Flora (Plant Life): Dominated by extensive aquatic and wetland vegetation, often nearly covering the surface. Includes large reedbeds (Phragmites), cattails (Typha), rushes (Juncus), sedges (Carex), and various submerged macrophytes.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Internationally important for birdlife. Key breeding and stopover site for numerous water birds, including Dalmatian Pelican, Great White Pelican, Armenian Gull, White-winged Tern, Common Crane, White Stork, Grey Heron, Glossy Ibis, Ferruginous Duck, Velvet Scoter, Green Warbler, Long-legged Buzzard, and various grebes, ducks, geese, and shorebirds. Fish species include introduced Common Carp, Crucian Carp, Trout, Caucasian Shad, Mtkvari Barbel, European Whitefish, etc. Amphibians and reptiles typical of high-altitude wetlands are present. Invertebrate life is abundant.
• Trophic Level: Generally considered Eutrophic (nutrient-rich), due to its shallowness, abundant vegetation, and nutrient inputs.
• Water Clarity: Can be low due to suspended sediment (stirred by wind in the shallow basin) and high biological productivity.
• Water Temperature: Subject to significant seasonal variation; freezes over in winter (typically November to April). Warms relatively easily in summer due to shallowness.
• pH Levels: Likely alkaline, typical for lakes in volcanic plateau regions.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Can fluctuate, potentially experiencing low oxygen conditions in dense vegetation or under ice.
• Unique Ecological Features: Exceptionally shallow nature combined with large size creates a unique wetland habitat. Designated Ramsar site (wetland of international importance). Critical nesting site for Armenian Gulls and Dalmatian Pelicans. Important stopover point on migratory bird flyways.
• Conservation Status: Designated as Khanchali Managed Reserve (IUCN Category IV) within the Javakheti Protected Areas system. Ramsar Convention site #2445.
• Invasive Species: Common Carp is present and can impact native ecosystems.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Traditionally, surrounding areas used for livestock grazing. The lake itself experienced significant anthropogenic changes, including complete drainage attempts (1968-1980) and alterations for agricultural/industrial needs during the Soviet era and after.
• Current Uses: Primarily conservation and biodiversity protection. Growing importance for ecotourism (especially birdwatching). Sport and amateur fishing are permitted under regulation. Not used for drinking water, significant irrigation, or power generation. A dam currently divides the lake.
• Environmental Issues: Past drainage and alterations have heavily impacted the lake’s original state. Current challenges include managing water levels for optimal habitat, potential nutrient runoff from surrounding agriculture/grazing, impact of invasive species, disturbance to nesting birds, and climate change effects on water availability.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by Georgia’s Agency of Protected Areas as part of Javakheti Protected Areas. Management plans focus on habitat conservation, bird monitoring, and sustainable tourism development. Fishing is regulated. Ramsar designation brings international attention and conservation standards.
• Local Communities: The lake and protected area provide ecological benefits and potential economic opportunities through regulated tourism (birdwatching, regulated fishing) and involvement in conservation activities for nearby communities (Didi Khanchali, Patara Khanchali, Ninotsminda town).

Interesting or Unique Facts

• One of the largest lakes in Georgia by surface area, yet one of the shallowest.
• Its water level can fluctuate dramatically between seasons (highest in spring, lowest end of winter) and years, and its shape has been altered by human intervention.
• It hosts one of the most significant breeding colonies of Armenian Gulls in the world.
• Designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2020.
• Offers spectacular birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration (spring/autumn) and breeding seasons (summer). Easy hiking trails exist along the shore, accessible from Patara Khanchali.