Kyjovský potok

Gazing at the Kyjovský potok, it’s easy to overlook its humble beginnings. This seemingly small stream, the Kyjovský potok, begins its journey in Zbraslav, Prague. It flows a mere 2.47 kilometers, yet its drainage basin covers 3.5 square kilometers. The Kyjovský potok meanders through Zbraslav and Lipence, both part of Prague 5. Its journey can be divided into two distinct parts. Initially, the Kyjovský potok winds through a natural, forested area. After leaving the woods, it flows through meadows in Lipence, its course natural and shallow, allowing for occasional spills. The Kyjovský potok then enters the built-up area of Lipence. Here, it becomes a more controlled waterway. The stream bed is often widened or reinforced, and in some places, even piped underground. The Kyjovský potok boasts two small bodies of water along its route: the U Lip fishpond and the U Křížku retention reservoir. These reservoirs, built in the 1950s, underwent complete renovation and dredging in 2005. Originally a separate village along the Kyjovský potok, Lipence is now connected with neighboring Lipany, the administrative center of the area. Several beautiful farms still dot the landscape. The heart of the old village features a cross on a massive stone base and a modern iron bell tower, restored in 2005. The first written mention of this village dates back to the second half of the 13th century. The village belonged to the Zbraslav estate and has been part of Prague since 1974. Once the Kyjovský potok leaves Lipence, it flows into the wetlands near Lipanský potok. Here, the Kyjovský potok ends its individual journey. Its water merges with the Lipanský potok, continuing to the Berounka River. The management of the Kyjovský potok falls under the jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Department of Prague City Hall. Maintenance is carried out by Lesy hl. m. Prahy. Management approaches vary along the stream. In the upper, natural section, the focus is on protecting, preserving, and enhancing the natural character of the Kyjovský potok. In the built-up area, the priority is ensuring sufficient flow and capacity. This can be challenging, especially in areas where the stream passes through private gardens with limited access. While most residents treat the Kyjovský potok with respect, even incorporating it into their garden designs, some see it as a dumping ground. This negatively impacts both the flow and water quality.