Räterichsbodensee is a man‑made reservoir located in the Bernese Oberland region of the canton of Bern, Switzerland. The lake was created by the construction of the Räterichsboden Dam on the Aare River system and forms part of the Kraftwerke Oberhasli (KWO) hydroelectric power scheme.
Geography
- Country: Switzerland
- Canton: Bern
- Region: Bernese Oberland, within the upper Aare catch‑area
- Surface elevation: Approximately 1,400 m above sea level (exact figure varies by water level)
Hydrology
- Inflow: Primarily fed by melt‑water and runoff from the surrounding Alpine catchment, converging into the Aare River tributaries.
- Outflow: Water is released through the Räterichsboden power plant, eventually rejoining the Aare River downstream.
Purpose and Usage
Räterichsbodensee serves principally as a storage reservoir for hydroelectric generation. The stored water provides the necessary head for the Räterichsboden power station, which contributes to the regional electricity supply managed by the Kraftwerke Oberhasli (KWO) company. Recreational activities such as hiking and nature observation occur in the surrounding area, although the lake itself is not a primary tourist destination due to its utilitarian function.
History
The Räterichsboden Dam, responsible for the formation of the lake, was constructed in the early 20th century as part of a broader effort to harness Alpine water resources for electricity production. The exact year of completion is recorded in Swiss engineering archives but is not detailed here.
Environmental Considerations
As with many Alpine reservoirs, Räterichsbodensee influences local ecosystems by regulating water flow, affecting downstream habitats, and providing a stable aquatic environment that supports a range of native flora and fauna. Ongoing monitoring is conducted by cantonal authorities to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
References
- Kraftwerke Oberhasli (KWO) – official publications on the Oberhasli hydroelectric system.
- Swiss Federal Office of Topography (swisstopo) – cartographic data confirming the reservoir’s location and dimensions.
Note: The above information reflects the consensus of available Swiss geographic and hydroelectric sources. Where precise figures (e.g., surface area, exact elevation) are not definitively published, general approximations are provided.