The water dam of Kastanorema was constructed in the late 2000's to early 2010's for purposes surrounding concentration of freshwater from the streams ending up at the valley of Kastanorema, but for technical reasons was never operated. Covering an area of approximately 150 km2, it has year-round presence of freshwater and is covered by large stones and little aquatic vegetation, mainly consisting of Pondweed Potamogeton sp. and grasses. The valley of Kastanorema is located at the river mouth of Kastanorema gorge, where a small perennial stream flows. The area is covered by dense maquis, oak forests and some olive groves and is located at the NE part of Alonissos, 14 km from the main town of Patitiri. The dam is an important stopover for migratory avifauna and is also a hotspot for birds of prey, such as kestrels, falcons, buzzards and owls. The valley is also an important nesting area for several passerines. Dragonflies, butterflies and dozens of interesting flowering plant species thrive in the area.
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View of the water dam |
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The Kastanorema stream |
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Eleonora's falcon Falco eleonorae |
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Erhad's wall lizard Podarcis erhardii |
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Behind the dam |
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View of Kastanorema valley |
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Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe |
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Crocus nivalis |