VIDEO: This is the largest artificial lake in Croatia
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
Lake Dubrava (Photo credit: Silverije/CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Donja Dubrava Hydroelectric Power Plant’s reservoir is the largest artificial lake in Croatia.
Known also as HE Dubrava or Lake Dubrava, it is administratively divided between Međimurje County and Varaždin County on the Drava River and is the last of three hydroelectric plants that regulate and utilise the Drava in Croatia up to the Mura River confluence.
Lake Dubrava, created for the plant, has an area of 17.1 km2 and is second largest lake overall in Croatia, and also the country’s largest artificial lake.
Lake Dubrava is a well-known spot for fishing enthusiasts. Close to the town of Prelog, the lake features a small marina, along with several log cabins, and nearby, there is a small airstrip for powered hang gliders along the banks of the Drava River.
Due to the river’s characteristics in this section, the greatest energy drop is achieved by slowing the flow. HE Dubrava has the highest dam and the shortest diversion channel compared to the upstream plants.
Lake Dubrava (Photo credit: Silverije/CC BY-SA 4.0)
Construction innovations, such as clay-concrete “hanging” walls, reduced water seepage and construction costs. The dam also increased water flow capacity. Preparatory works began in September 1984, and the plant became operational in March 1990, nine months ahead of schedule.
The lake has been temporarily drained to allow for routine maintenance of the dam. The water level has been lowered by up to two metres, a necessary step for the annual inspection and repairs of the dam’s asphalt lining, Večernji list reported.
During this period, the water level will be gradually reduced by up to two metres below the normal minimum operational level.
Map of Lake Dubrava (Photo credit: Silverije/CC BY-SA 4.0)
This gradual lowering of the water level aims to minimise sudden changes and reduce the impact on the lake’s fish population.
Although the works have been scheduled in line with weather conditions, the pace at which the water level is reduced and the progress of the work will depend on the meteorological and hydrological circumstances.
This ensures that all maintenance on the dam is carried out in optimal conditions for the safety and ecological balance of this important hydroelectric system.
