Santi Lake

Santi Lake: A Small Lake of Tsalka

Santi Lake is a small, lesser-known body of water located in the Kvemo Kartli region, Tsalka Municipality, near the village of Santa. It is one of the smaller representatives of the extensive Javakheti lake system, distinguished by its local importance and tranquil environment. Situated at an altitude of over 1700 meters above sea level, this shallow lake is primarily fed by atmospheric precipitation and groundwater. Due to its small size and shallowness, the lake’s ecosystem is closely linked to the surrounding landscape, which mainly consists of alpine meadows and pastures. Ecologically, Santi Lake, like other water bodies in the region, creates a local wetland habitat that provides shelter for amphibians, invertebrates, and some birds. Human activity around the lake is limited to livestock grazing and its use as a water source by the local population. Santi Lake is not a popular tourist destination, which helps to preserve its natural environment. It is a typical example of the small lakes of the Javakheti Highland, which play an important role in maintaining the balance of the local ecosystem and traditional farming activities.

Identification and Location

• Name: Santi Lake.
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Kvemo Kartli
  • Municipality: Tsalka
• Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Located near the village of Santa, southeast of the Tsalka Reservoir.
• Coordinates: Approximately 41°33′ N, 43°52′ E.
• Connections: An isolated lake fed by precipitation and groundwater.

Physical Characteristics

• • Surface Area: Very small, approximately 0.05 square kilometers.
  • Maximum Depth: Very shallow, likely not exceeding 1-2 meters.
  • Altitude: Approximately 1740 meters above sea level.
  • Water Source(s): Atmospheric precipitation, groundwater.

* Outflow(s): None.

• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Located on the Javakheti Volcanic Highland.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Aquatic and marsh vegetation is developed around the lake and in its coastal zone. Surrounded by subalpine meadows.
• Fauna: Likely inhabited by amphibians and aquatic insects. May serve as a temporary refuge for some birds.
• Trophic Level: Eutrophic, due to its shallowness.
• Conservation Status: None.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Does not have any widely known historical significance.
• Current Use: Used by the local population for domestic and agricultural purposes, mainly for watering livestock.
• Environmental Issues: Potential pollution from livestock farming. Vulnerable to droughts.
• Local Communities: The lake is a natural resource for the local village.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• It is one of many small lakes on the Javakheti Highland.
• It is important for the local ecosystem rather than for tourism.
• Its existence is entirely dependent on local climatic conditions.