Nadarbazevi Lake

Nadarbazevi Lake: An Artificial Reservoir of Shida Kartli

Nadarbazevi Lake, located in the Shida Kartli region, Gori municipality, near the village of Nadarbazevi, is a significant artificial reservoir. It was created during the Soviet era primarily to supply irrigation water to the surrounding agricultural lands. The lake is fed by a canal diverted from the Didi Liakhvi River, making its water level adjustable and dependent on seasonal needs. Despite its utilitarian purpose, Nadarbazevi Lake has evolved into a popular recreational area for the local population. The lake and its surroundings attract fishermen, as several species of fish, including carp and grass carp, have been introduced into the reservoir, making it attractive for amateur fishing. Ecologically, as an artificial body of water, it has created a new, local wetland habitat that attracts water birds. The area around the lake is characterized by agricultural landscapes, underscoring its primary function—supporting the region’s agrarian sector. Nadarbazevi Lake is a clear example of human transformation of nature, which, along with economic benefits, also acquires recreational and ecological value.

Identification and Location

• Name: Nadarbazevi Lake (Nadarbazevi Reservoir).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Shida Kartli
  • Municipality: Gori
• Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Located near the villages of Nadarbazevi and Patara Garejvari.
• Coordinates: Approximately 42°03′ N, 44°04′ E.
• Connections: Artificially connected to the Didi Liakhvi River by an irrigation canal.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Approximately 0.2 square kilometers (varies with water level).
• Maximum Depth: Shallow, around 5-7 meters.
• Average Depth: Approximately 3-4 meters.
• Volume: Small, dependent on the filling level.
• Altitude: Approximately 850 meters above sea level.
• Water Source(s): Canal from the Didi Liakhvi River.
• Outflow(s): A network of irrigation canals.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Located on the Shida Kartli plain in a man-made basin.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Small amounts of reeds and other aquatic vegetation can be found along the lake’s shores. The surrounding area is mainly agricultural fields and meadows.
• Fauna: Several fish species (carp, grass carp, silver carp) have been artificially introduced for fishery purposes. It attracts migratory and local water birds.
• Trophic Level: Likely mesotrophic to eutrophic, due to runoff from agriculture.
• Water Clarity: Variable, often low due to sediment and water from the canal.
• Water Temperature: Subject to strong seasonal changes. Warm in summer, can partially freeze in winter.
• Unique Ecological Features: Serves as an important irrigation hub and a local fishing spot.
• Conservation Status: Does not have conservation status; managed as an economic facility.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Created in the 20th century as part of the Soviet irrigation system to increase the region’s agricultural potential.
• Current Use: The main purpose is irrigation. It is also widely used for amateur fishing and recreation by the local population.
• Environmental Issues: Potential risks include deterioration of water quality due to runoff of fertilizers and pesticides, sedimentation, and unstable water levels.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by the local municipality or water resource management agency, primarily for irrigation purposes.
• Local Communities: The lake plays an important role in the economy of the surrounding villages as a source of water for their crops.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• It is an artificially created reservoir, not a natural lake.
• Its main function is to support agriculture through irrigation.
• It is a popular spot for amateur fishing.
• The water level is regulated by humans according to agricultural needs.