Parsęta

The Parsęta is a river spanning 139 kilometers in length, located in northwestern Poland within the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, with a drainage basin covering an area of 3,151 km². Its source lies near Parsęcko, and the river flows in a northwesterly direction, meandering through Białogard and Karlino before ending its course in Kołobrzeg, where it empties into the Baltic Sea. The cities along its banks include Białogard, Karlino, and Kołobrzeg. Several hydroelectric investments have been implemented along the Parsęta, including hydropower plants, one of which has a capacity of 418 kW. The river plays a significant role in both fisheries and tourism. Since 1997, the Open National Spinning Competition "Salmo Parsęty" has been organized, marking the end of the fishing season for sea trout and salmon. The Parsęta also serves as an aquatorium and an entrance channel to the port of Kołobrzeg. Numerous protective restrictions have been established within the river and its basin to safeguard habitats and fish, particularly during the spawning season of sea trout and salmon. Areas along the Parsęta are protected, including the special habitat protection area "Dorzecze Parsęty" (Parsęta Basin), where fishing and any activities harmful to the ecosystem are prohibited. Environmental conservation efforts are carried out by the Association of Towns and Municipalities of the Parsęta Basin, as well as the Society of Lovers of the Parsęta. The river's name has historical roots, documented since the 13th century with various spellings over the centuries. The current form—Parsęta—was officially adopted in 1948. Several hypotheses exist regarding the origin of its name, including connections to Indo-European and Slavic languages, though none are definitive. The river is also a popular kayaking route; the easier stretch from Białogard to Kołobrzeg is accessible to tourists, while the upper and middle sections present challenges such as fallen trees and numerous obstacles, requiring portaging. The Parsęta combines rich architectural, cultural, and ecological heritage, serving as both a tourist attraction and a source of local traditions.