Lake Vistonida in Eastern Macedonia–Thrace, one of Northern Greece’s most important wetlands, is entering a new phase of environmental protection and sustainable management. Photo source: Municipality of Avdera
The first comprehensive state-backed management plan for Lake Vistonida in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace has officially been launched, marking what authorities describe as the first coordinated intervention for one of northern Greece’s most important wetlands.
The study, titled “Water Management Plan for Lake Vistonida and Demarcation of Shoreline and Beach”, was presented during a dedicated event in Komotini.
According to Dimitris Galamatis, Secretary General of the Decentralized Administration of Macedonia–Thrace, the initiative aims to address longstanding structural and environmental challenges through an integrated framework.
Key priorities include flood protection for surrounding areas, environmentally safe surface runoff management and the formal demarcation of the lake’s boundaries to prevent encroachments and safeguard public interest. The plan will also assess the sustainable use of water resources, taking into account both quantitative and qualitative conditions and existing activities.
Located between the regional units of Xanthi and Rodopi and connected to the Porto Lagos lagoons, Lake Vistonida is a wetland ecosystem of high ecological value, supporting local fisheries and mild tourism activity. Lake Vistonida is Greece’s fourth-largest and protected under the Natura 2000 network.
Flamingos gather at Lake Vistonida, a protected wetland of high ecological value that supports rich birdlife and diverse aquatic ecosystems. Photo source: Municipality of Avdera
The 674,000-euro study is funded through the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Development Program 2021–2025 and is expected to be completed by the end of summer 2027. It will be evaluated for compatibility with the approved water management plans of the Thrace Water District, specifying measures tailored to the lake’s ecosystem.
According to authorities, the objective is to strengthen environmental protection while enabling sustainable economic activity in the wider region.
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