(photo by: E. Vettorazzo)
It is a little stretch of water set in the unusual setting of the so-called “Masière” (meaning “stony grounds”), representing a “unicum” both as far as morphology and vegetation are concerned. It strongly contributes to increase the specific biodiversity of our territories, regardless of the intrinsic morphological and landscape values.
Municipality/ies: Sospirolo
Access: From the SC road (municipal road) Mis- Ponte Mas
Difficulty reaching and moving about in the area: none. In case of a higher level of the lake, it may be necessary to wear mountain boots or boots. The itineraries around the lake develop on a flat ground and are suitable for everyone.
Floristic-vegetation features
The floristic rarities include populations of water-lily (even if probably they are not autochthonous, they offer a charming setting when they are in bloom). Along the shores, small populations of Cladium mariscus and Teucrium scordium still vegetate (the only stations at a provincial level). Also the stations of Carex pseudocyperus and Carex vesicaria are worth a mention and, at the edges, the stations of Inula salicina and Epipactis palustris. The change of the ecological conditions and the natural dynamism of these environments, always very precious and fragile, is documented by the recent disappearance of species like Polygonum amphibium, Najas marina, and Ceratophyllum demersum.
The population of Myriophyllum spicatum which, together with the water-lily, characterizes free water, is increasingly growing. Near the shores, it is possible to observe thick Schoenoplectus lacustris formations, a strong plant of the Cyperaceae with empty stalks of a very dark green color, also reaching the two meters of height. In the easternmost section, there is an impenetrable but fascinating canebrake, very important for the animal communities exploiting the shelters offered by the thick nuclei of Salix cinerea.
Also some nuclei of coppice wood surrounding the lake must be considered important for vegetable biodiversity and, above all, for the shelters and food they can offer to birds.
Wildlife features
The lake houses a rather diversified community of amphibians consisting of common toad, common frog, tree frog, and newts. Unfortunately, the fish populations have been modified by the introductions made with recreational purposes (sports fishing). As far as birds are concerned, the canebrakes are periodically visited by the Gray Heron, while the Mallard and the Moorhen are almost a constant presence. Aquatic birds also include the Water Rail.
Further features
Near the lake, you will find the wonderful Certosa di Vedana, one of the most interesting historical-cultural structures of the Park. You can also carry out an interesting visit to the rural village of San Gottardo.
- Recommended time of year: all year round, except winter, when the lake is frozen
- Equipment: trekking shoes, binoculars, camera
Municipality: Sospirolo (BL)