#U_Lakes The city lake as a space for life, recreation, and nature

As part of the project “UrbanLakes: Cross-Border Synergy for Blue Ecosystem Preservation”, implemented under the Interreg NEXT Romania–Ukraine Programme, our goal is to raise awareness of best practices in Ukrainian cities and to share how this experience can improve public spaces in Ivano-Frankivsk. That is why we cannot overlook the example of Ternopil Lake — the heart of the city.

It is not just a reservoir in the city center, but a true natural and social hub of Ternopil. Its role extends far beyond aesthetics: the lake supports the local microclimate, serves as a hub of biodiversity, and shapes the community’s cultural and social identity.

In recent years, the city has implemented a series of measures to make the lake area comfortable for people and safe for nature. These include the development of the lakeside promenade with walking paths and bike trails, benches, lighting, and rest areas; regular cleaning of the water to remove silt and debris, which preserves the lake’s ecological quality; the creation of green islands and plantings that serve as refuges for birds and small animals; the development of recreational and sports areas for kayaking, family outings, and active leisure; and the organization of educational and cultural events that foster environmental awareness among residents.

The example of Ternopil Lake demonstrates that an city reservoir can successfully combine its natural function with community activities. It is a space where people relax, play sports, go on educational walks, and hold cultural events, while nature continues to thrive and be preserved.

As part of the UrbanLakes project, we are incorporating these approaches into the planning of German Lake in Ivano-Frankivsk: creating recreational areas, green spaces, and spots for nature observation, as well as supporting biodiversity, to combine comfort for people with the body of water’s natural function.

This publication has been produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Executive Committee of the Ivano-Frankivsk City Council and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Union or the management structures of the Interreg VI-A NEXT 2021-2027 Romania-Ukraine Program.

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