Rybník Starý

Rybník Starý is a nature reserve located in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, in the Pelhřimov district, near the town of Horní Cerekev in the Czech Republic. The protected area covers 12.73 hectares at an elevation of 595 to 608 metres above sea level, and lies within the Jihlava river basin. The reserve is administered by the Nature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic (AOPK ČR).

Why was this site protected?

Rybník Starý was declared a nature reserve on 1 April 1992 by decision of the Pelhřimov district authority. The reason for protection is a complex of aquatic, wetland and peatland ecosystems that support specially protected species. The combination of an open water body surrounded by marshland and peat bog gives the site notable ecological value as a habitat for water-dependent plants and animals.

What species live here?

Species recorded within the reserve include the water violet (a plant typical of shallow, nutrient-rich ponds) along with amphibians such as the edible frog and various brown frog species. The presence of these species, which are sensitive to water quality and habitat condition, is one of the main reasons the site continues to be protected.

What changes have taken place here recently?

In 2011, a revitalisation project was carried out on the pond in the neighbouring cadastral area of Řeženčice, funded through the Operational Programme Environment. The project cost a total of 2.4 million Czech korunas. Work included repairing the dam, building new outlet structures, removing sediment that had accumulated on the bottom of the reservoir, and creating three small ponds around the main body of water. The goal was to restore the water regime, which had been disrupted by silting, and to increase the reservoir's water-retention capacity. The project improved both local biodiversity and the surrounding landscape.

Who is this place for?

Rybník Starý is primarily a destination for nature enthusiasts interested in observing waterfowl, amphibians and peatland vegetation, as well as for travellers looking for a quiet, lesser-visited corner of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands near Horní Cerekev. Because the site holds protected status, visitors should stick to designated paths and avoid disturbing the habitats within the reserve.

Frequently asked questions

When was the Rybník Starý reserve established? It was established on 1 April 1992 by decision of the Pelhřimov district authority.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers 12.73 hectares, at an elevation of 595–608 metres above sea level.

What species does the reserve protect? It protects aquatic, wetland and peatland ecosystems, including the water violet and both edible and brown frog species.

Has the site undergone any restoration work? Yes, in 2011 the pond in the neighbouring Řeženčice cadastral area was revitalised, including dam repairs, new outlet structures and removal of bottom sediment.