[[File:Zvornik lake.jpg|thumb|Zvornik Lake near Zvornik]]
Zvornik Lake (Serbian: Зворничко језеро, Zvorničko jezero) is an artificial lake located on the [[Drina River]] on the border between [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]] (specifically, the [[Republika Srpska]] entity) and [[Serbia]] (in the [[Mačva District]]). It is one of the oldest artificial lakes in the former [[Yugoslavia]], created in 1954 with the construction of the Zvornik Hydroelectric Power Plant (HE Zvornik).
Geography and Hydrology
Zvornik Lake stretches approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) along the Drina River. Its surface area typically ranges from 8.1 to 13 square kilometers (3.1 to 5.0 square miles), varying with water levels and the specific measurement method. The maximum depth of the lake is around 28 meters (92 feet) near the dam, with an average depth of about 8 meters (26 feet). The lake is fed primarily by the Drina River, which originates from the confluence of the [[Tara River]] and [[Piva River]] in [[Montenegro]].The lake's shores are characterized by a mix of forested hills and agricultural land, with several small settlements located along its banks. The towns of [[Zvornik]] (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and [[Mali Zvornik]] (Serbia) are situated near the dam at the northern end of the lake, where a bridge connects the two countries.
History
The construction of the Zvornik Hydroelectric Power Plant and the subsequent formation of Zvornik Lake began in the early 1950s and was completed in 1954. The primary purpose of the dam and lake was to generate electricity for the region, contributing significantly to the post-World War II industrialization efforts of Yugoslavia. The creation of the lake submerged parts of the Drina valley, including some agricultural lands and small settlements.Economy and Tourism
Zvornik Lake plays an important economic role, primarily through the Zvornik Hydroelectric Power Plant, which continues to supply electricity to the grid. The lake is also a significant natural border between the two countries.The lake is a popular destination for various recreational activities:
- Fishing: The lake is rich in various fish species, including carp, catfish, pike, and zander, making it attractive for recreational and sport fishing.
- Water Sports: Boating, swimming, and kayaking are popular activities, especially during the warmer months.
- Tourism: The scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings attracts visitors, with several holiday homes and small resorts along its shores.
Environmental Aspects
The lake's ecosystem supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. However, like many artificial reservoirs, it faces environmental challenges such as sedimentation and occasional pollution from upstream sources. Efforts are periodically made to monitor and maintain the ecological balance of the lake.See Also
- [[Drina River]]
- [[Zvornik]]
- [[Hydroelectric power plant Zvornik]]
[[Category:Lakes of Bosnia and Herzegovina]] [[Category:Lakes of Serbia]] [[Category:Artificial lakes of Bosnia and Herzegovina]] [[Category:Artificial lakes of Serbia]] [[Category:Drina River]] [[Category:International lakes]] [[Category:Geography of Republika Srpska]] [[Category:Mačva District]]