The creation of an almost 100 hectare basin near the city of Rawicz in Poland is a crucial part of flood protection. The new lake is also serving the recreational needs of local inhabitants and tourists.
- 09 November 2015
Jutrosin is not only a crucial part of a flood risk management system. It is also a boost for tourist and recreational potential of the area. It is a perfect place for sport lovers, for families but also a perfect spot for open air events.
The newly built Lake Jutrosin can hold more than two billion litres of water from two nearby rivers; the Orla and the Radęca. This capacity is enough to significantly decrease flood risk, not only locally but also for the Greater Poland region.
A welcome change
For the last 20 years, the building of a basin in the region was high on the list of priorities for the local government, but a lack of sufficient funding was the main obstacle. Only in 2009, thanks to the engagement of Franciszek Halc, the head of Leszno branch of Greater Poland Voivodeship Board of Land Improvement and Water Facilities, were the funds found.
From the Operational Programme Greater Poland 2007-2013, the region received EU funds and was able to develop their flood defences. The project soon began its risk management which included the building of a basin, embankments and dams, as well as regulating the Radeca and Orla river.
Boost for tourism
Today, Jutrosin is a very important reservoir that provides water to local farmers in case of drought and acts as a basic drainage system to stabilise the surrounding area’s soil moisture. The lake is also beneficial for fauna and flora because it created ideal conditions for a lake ecosystem to develop.
Local authorities hope that Jutrosin will also be a boost for tourism for the region. It is already a very popular place for fishermen and water sports lovers while a path around the lake makes the area perfect for walking, jogging, biking and horse riding.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Building of lake Jutrosin” is EUR 6 384 181, of which the EU’s European Regional Development Fund is contributing EUR 4 212 961 from the Operational Programme “Greater Poland” for the 2007 to 2013 programming period.