“Ecological accident” does not sound good. But that is exactly what the Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech is here to prevent.
Welcome to the Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech. This reservoir serves a crucial purpose. It protects against ecological disasters linked to the D0 motorway.
The Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech sits in Prague 13’s \u0158eporyje area. It is 460 meters north of the Prague ring road. At 312 meters above sea level its location is strategic. The reservoir spans one hectare.
Let’s step back to the 1980s. During the Prague ring road construction this reservoir came to life. Its main job is to catch sudden rainfalls. It also prevents ecological emergencies. The O\u0159e\u0161sk\u00fd brook feeds into this flow-through basin.
Picture this a sudden downpour. Rain rushes off the highway carrying pollutants. The Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech acts as a buffer. It prevents harmful substances from spreading.
The reservoir’s design is simple but effective. It is almost triangular. A 2.5-meter-high dam forms one side. The dam stretches 90 meters. Engineers reinforced it with vegetation panels.
In 2008 the Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech underwent revitalization. Workers dredged the basin. They repaired the outflow system. The concrete structure got a facelift. A new steel footbridge was added. Everything received a green coat to blend in.
The revitalization included extensive planting. Workers added trees and shrubs. They created an oak alley on the dam similar to those in the T\u0159ebo\u0148 region.
But the Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech is more than just a functional structure. It supports diverse wildlife. Marsh plants thrive here. You will find cattails sedges and reeds. These provide habitat for various creatures.
Keep an eye out for water birds. You might spot Eurasian coots little grebes or common moorhens. Amphibians also call this place home. Fire-bellied toads common toads green frogs and smooth newts live here. You may even see a grass snake.
The Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech is also a fish farm. The Czech Anglers Association uses it. They raise mainly carp fry. This helps maintain ecological balance in the reservoir.
The city of Prague owns the Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech. The Forests of Prague manages it. They conduct monthly inspections. These ensure the reservoir’s safety and functionality. Workers also clean the area.
The Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech stands as a testament. It shows how engineering and nature can coexist. It protects us from unseen dangers. The Reten\u010dn\u00ed n\u00e1dr\u017e O\u0159ech helps to create a healthier environment for all.