Dating back to 1840, Hořejší rybník is one of Prague’s historical ponds. It sits here in Hloubětín. Originally built as a flow-through pond, the Rokytka stream runs directly through it.
Let me tell you more about Hořejší rybník. It likely emerged in the 16th century alongside other ponds on the Rokytka. Historically, another smaller pond existed below Hořejší rybník. It was eventually abandoned.
The purpose of Hořejší rybník was multifaceted. It served fish farming needs. Also it acted as a water reservoir for the nearby Kejšov Mill. Amazingly, the mill’s water race still survives. In the 1960s, it even became a natural swimming pool. Can you imagine that?
Interestingly, a survey in 2006 found diverse flora and fauna here. There were 107 plant species. Also 165 butterfly species called this place home. The tufted duck and little grebe nest here. You might spot mallards. Coots or reed warblers are also common. Amphibians include the marsh frog. Common and green toads also live here.
In the years 2012 and 2013, Hořejší rybník underwent a complete renovation. During this process workers removed sediment. They extracted 20000 cubic meters of sediment from the pond’s bottom. This material helped reclaim land below the dam. It also helped establish a new forest in Hrdlořezy. It is called Třešňovka. To enhance the area, a small wooden pier was constructed on Hořejší rybník.
Hořejší rybník covers a water surface of 40570 square meters. Its volume reaches 65000 cubic meters. The dam is an earth-fill structure. It stands about 4.5 meters high. Today, the City of Prague owns Hořejší rybník. Lesy hl m. Prahy manages it.
Fish farming remains a key function. Each spring, a regular draining occurs. About 300000 to 500000 carp fry are released into the pond. Pike and tench are also introduced.
The revitalization project included modifications to the Rokytka stream. Workers replaced the original steps with boulder chutes. These chutes allow fish to pass through. Vegetation adjustments were made around the pond. The path on the dividing dam was repaired.
Hořejší rybník stands as a testament to historical water management. It shows ecological diversity. Also it provides recreational value. It represents a harmonious blend of nature and human intervention.