Zemborzyckie Lake

Zemborzyckie Lake, also known as Zemborzycki Reservoir, is a retention and recreational reservoir on the Bystrzyca River, located in Lublin, in the Zemborzyce district. It was created thanks to the social involvement of residents in 1974, but the decisions made during its creation contributed to poor water quality and problems with cyanobacterial blooms. In 2019, a lake revitalization program was launched, which may last up to 4 years and includes completely draining the water. Surrounded by beautiful forests, the reservoir is part of the Czerniejowski Protected Landscape Area. The history of the lake dates back to an idea by Kazimierz Bryński, a geographer from Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (UMCS), who in the mid-20th century suggested creating a reservoir in this area. After many twists and turns, related to railway plans and other projects, construction work took place from 1970 with the participation of approximately 40,000 residents of Lublin. The grand opening took place on July 16, 1974, with the participation of Edward Gierek, the First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Polish United Workers' Party (KC PZPR). Original plans for developing the area around the lake, including the construction of holiday resorts, were hampered by the economic crisis of the 1980s. Despite imperfections in the reservoir's preparation, Zemborzyckie Lake has become a recreational site, with centers such as Marina and Słoneczny Wrotków, offering various attractions, including water equipment rentals, a swimming pool complex, and a beach. The lake is also a popular place for winter sports and a cycling route on the Podlubelskie Forests Trail. An interesting ecological and natural aspect is birdwatching – various bird species, including loons and swans, can be observed around the reservoir. In 2019, the ecological state of the reservoir was assessed as poor, which prompted actions to improve water quality. Planned works include dredging the bottom, with their start scheduled for 2022. Zemborzyckie Lake, combining recreational, historical, and ecological values, is an important element of the local landscape and culture of Lublin.