Nuri Lake

Nuri Lake, or Nuris Tba (ნურის ტბა) as it’s known in Georgian, is a charming and well-known lake situated right in the heart of Batumi, Georgia. It’s not a vast, natural wilderness lake, but rather a central feature of one of the city’s oldest and most beloved parks, May 6th Park (formerly Pioneer Park). Its significance lies less in its physical size or unique ecological status and more in its role as a vital recreational and aesthetic hub for both locals and tourists visiting Batumi. The lake provides a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls, paddle boating, and simply enjoying a moment of tranquility amidst the urban environment. Surrounded by the greenery of the park, including pathways, benches, and nearby attractions like the Batumi Dolphinarium, Nuri Lake serves as a focal point for community life and relaxation. Its accessibility and pleasant atmosphere make it a consistently popular destination within the vibrant coastal city.

Identification and Location

• Name: Nuri Lake (English), Nuris Tba / ნურის ტბა (Georgian).
• Location: Located within May 6th Park in Batumi, the capital city of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, Georgia. It lies close to the Black Sea coast.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41.646∘N, 41.631∘E.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: It is largely a self-contained lake within the park, situated very close to the Black Sea but not directly connected.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Relatively small, characteristic of an urban park lake. Specific area figures can vary, but it’s visually a modest size.
• Maximum Depth: Generally considered shallow, suitable for recreational boating. Reported depths are often around 5-8 meters, but this can fluctuate.
• Average Depth: Shallow.
• Elevation: Low, just slightly above sea level, consistent with Batumi’s coastal location.
• Water Source(s): Likely fed by a combination of groundwater, precipitation, and potentially municipal water inputs, as well as urban runoff from the surrounding park area.
• Outlet(s): Likely managed outlets integrated into the park’s infrastructure to control water levels.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Situated on the coastal plain; the basin is likely artificial or heavily modified as part of the park’s construction.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Primarily consists of ornamental plantings along the shoreline as part of the May 6th Park landscaping. Some submerged or emergent aquatic vegetation may be present.
• Fauna: Most visibly inhabited by waterfowl, including ducks and swans, often fed by visitors. Fish species may be present, potentially including introduced species for ornamental or angling purposes (though significant fishing is unlikely). Small invertebrates typical of freshwater ponds are expected.
• Trophic Level: Likely ranges from mesotrophic to eutrophic, influenced by urban runoff, inputs from waterfowl, and its relatively small, enclosed nature.
• Water Clarity: Can be variable, potentially affected by algae growth, sediment runoff, and human activity.
• Unique Ecological Features: Its primary ecological significance is as an aquatic habitat and green space within a dense urban environment.
• Conservation Status: Managed as part of May 6th Park. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining the park’s aesthetic and recreational quality.
• Invasive Species: Like many urban water bodies, it could potentially host non-native plants or animals, though specific documented problems may vary.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Integral to the history of May 6th Park, one of Batumi’s oldest public spaces.
• Current Uses: Primarily recreational – paddle boating, walking around the perimeter, visual amenity, focal point for relaxation and tourism within the park. It is not used as a source for drinking water or irrigation.
• Environmental Issues: Potential issues common to urban lakes include pollution from stormwater runoff (carrying pollutants from streets), littering, and potential eutrophication leading to algal blooms if nutrient levels become too high.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by the Batumi city authorities responsible for parks and recreation. Efforts focus on maintaining water quality, managing vegetation, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of visitors.
• Local Communities: Highly valued by Batumi residents as a central part of a popular park, offering accessible green space and leisure opportunities. It’s also a key attraction for tourists visiting the city.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Its most defining feature is its location within the historic and popular May 6th Park in central Batumi.
• The lake is situated very close to other park attractions, most notably the Batumi Dolphinarium, adding to the area’s appeal.
• Paddle boats are a common sight, making it a fun activity for families and visitors.