Water Management Plan for Lake Vistonida

Consortis, leveraging extensive experience in hydraulic, topographical, and environmental studies, is actively involved in developing the Water Management Plan for Lake Vistonida and delineating the shoreline and beach. This contract represents a strategic initiative to safeguard and manage this valuable wetland responsibly. The main scope is to ensure the lake’s sustainability, address environmental concerns, and implement evidence-based approaches for defining natural boundaries with consideration to hydraulic, topographical, environmental, geological, and economic factors.

The Challenge

Lake Vistonida, the largest lake in Thrace and an integral part of the National Park of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, is a vital wetland of substantial ecological significance. The stability of the lake is affected by:

• Sedimentation resulting from the transportation of materials.
• Agricultural activities.
• Eutrophication.
• Animal husbandry.
• Fishing.

These disturbances present complex management challenges due to intensified natural processes, human intervention, and climate change impact, necessitating a rigorously substantiated management plan to secure the long-term sustainability and protection of the lake, wetland, and surrounding area.

The Solution

Consortis develops an integrated strategy based on scientific data, technological innovation, and stakeholder engagement. Key steps include:

• On-site inspections
• Data collection
• Formation of the Coordination Team
• Development of an integrated GIS database
• Topographical surveying
• Hydrological analysis
• Precise sedimentation rate estimation
• Temporal analysis of lake system 
• Geological analysis
• Environmental analysis 
• Analysis of pressure resulting from natural processes, human activities, and climate change
• Analysis of property ownership status and relevant legislation
• Economic analysis
• Stakeholder and community consultation
• Preparation of a comprehensive Water Management Plan

Benefits

Implementation of the management plan will provide numerous advantages, including:

• Protection of the Lake Vistonida ecosystem and its wetlands, promoting biodiversity conservation and preventing degradation.
• Enhancement of rational water resource management, equipping stakeholders with tools to mitigate flooding, address pollution, and respond to climate change impacts.
• Improved conditions for agriculture, fishing, and animal husbandry, benefiting local community and professionals.
• Facilitation of evidence-based decision-making for sustainable regional development.
• Facilitating transparency and fostering collaboration among public authorities, positioning Lake Vistonida as a benchmark for sustainability.

Consortis delivers integrated solutions based on scientific integrity, state-of-the-art technologies, effective collaboration with institutional and local stakeholders, and a commitment to sustainability principles. The Water Management Plan for Lake Vistonida is considered as a model project that promotes environmental responsibility, enhances social welfare, and supports sustainable development throughout the region.