Reservoir Wisła Czarne awaits modernization

Reservoir Wisła Czarne awaits modernization – on October 25th, Wody Polskie signed an agreement for works expected to last until mid-2025, aiming to strengthen flood protection in the Podbeskidzie region. Although the reservoir is under strict protection, it’s worth taking an autumn walk along the dam crest, which offers a beautiful panorama of the Beskid Śląski peaks. This is an excellent opportunity to get to know this unique area better and its significance for the local ecosystem.

A brief history of the Wisła Czarne reservoir

Located 7 kilometers from the Czech border, the Wisła Czarne reservoir was completed in 1973. Its total capacity is 5.06 million m³, and the catchment area size is 30 km². The dam is located on the Mała Wisła, about 300 m below the junction of the Biała and Czarna Wisełka rivers, with a maximum water level set at 551.9 m above sea level.

Since its inception, the reservoir has served as flood protection and a water supply source. The earth dam is about 36 m high, and water is drawn from the reservoir to the Water Treatment Station in Wisła Czarne via a system of suction baskets.

The Silesian Voivodeship Encyclopedia notes that the construction of the reservoir was challenging due to the complex geological structure of the area. About 50 hectares of land were expropriated, and nearly 20 hectares of forests were cleared. Additionally, 12 farms and a school building were dismantled.

During its half-century of operation, the Wisła Czarne reservoir has proven to be a valuable element in the flood protection system. During the 1997 flood, it underwent repairs and lacked several concrete slabs, yet it withstood the pressure of the accumulated water. In 2010, it was nearly entirely filled – only 36 cm remained before an overflow.

The scope of modernization of the Wisła Czarne reservoir

“Modernization of the Wisła Czarne reservoir – drainage of the airside slope, overflow, piezometer network stage I, stage II” is a project being implemented by Wody Polskie with the support of EU funds under the Rural Development Program for 2014-2020. The total investment value is PLN 10.938 million and will include modernizing the existing earth dam and associated structures.

The need for modernization stems from the deteriorating technical condition of the Wisła Czarne reservoir. According to the RZGW in Gliwice, the necessity of limiting the water level in the reservoir has recently posed a threat to flood reserves and drinking water resources. The planned work will improve the functionality of the facility.

According to Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Przemysław Koperski, the project will increase the potential for potable water supply for 60,000 people in the Cieszyn County. At the same time, the risk of agricultural land flooding due to dam failure will be reduced, and the reservoir’s water retention capacity will be fully restored. This will positively impact water reserves crucial during periods of hydrogeological lows and prolonged agricultural drought.

An autumn walk along the dam

The Wisła Czarne reservoir, also popularly known as Lake Czerniańskie, is under strict protection due to its potable water intake – swimming, camping, and fishing are prohibited. However, visitors can stroll along the 270 m long dam crest, though access will be temporarily and locally restricted during the modernization period.

The surroundings of the reservoir encourage walking and cycling, with beautiful views of the Beskid Śląski peaks and lush forests. The route around the entire reservoir is about 5 km long and appealing year-round. The dam itself is also attractive after dark, thanks to beautiful lighting.

In the immediate vicinity, visitors can tour the Presidential Castle in Wisła-Czarne, and on the hill above it stands a wooden observation tower with a panoramic view of the reservoir. Moreover, the Barania Góra nature trail and the charming Czarna Wisełka Valley are worth visiting. It’s remarkable how the artificial reservoir seamlessly blends with the natural landscape of Podbeskidzie.

A visit to the Wisła Czarne reservoir is also a treat for enthusiasts of hydrotechnical facilities. In 2017, the RZGW in Gliwice allowed guided tours of the site for the first time. Visitors could explore the gallery and descend 20 meters below the water’s surface. The event was met with great interest, and one can only hope it will be repeated in the future.