Assessment of Recreational Potential of Water Bodies in Burla River Basin

Abstract

The study is aimed at assessing the recreational potential of water bodies in the Burla river basin. Methods for the ecological-aesthetic assessment of wildlife landscapes and the evaluation of beach-swimming recreation potential are used. Main indicators of landscape attractiveness assessment are as follows: distance and panoramic view, multipurposeness, picturesqueness, combination of land and water objects, vegetation diversity, manifestation of smells and sounds of nature, presence of recreational activity, etc. In assessing a water body for beach-swimming recreation purposes, we use such criteria as bottom, beach and water quality, water temperature, flow rate, etc. with a weight factor assigned. In order to compare two types of evaluation, the obtained values are normalized, their sum becomes the resulting assessment of the recreational potential of the territory. Results. Most water bodies in the Burla basin are distinguished by rather picturesque landscapes, favorable for beach-swimming recreation. Final assessment of the recreational potential of the territory is evidence of the highest attractiveness of Lake Peschanoye coasts, very popular among “wild” tourists nowadays. The prospects for this area development are related with the creation of all conditions for civilized recreation activity. Almost all coasts should be cleared from reed and garbage left by tourists. In some water bodies, convenient descents to the water are to be constructed. The Burla lakes possess large stocks of fish that can contribute to the development of fishing tourism here. Conclusions. The recreational potential of water bodies in the Burla basin is assessed using the techniques for ecological-aesthetic evaluation of wildlife landscapes, including the assessment of the potential for beach-swimming recreation. The resulting assessment enables to suggest priority measures for the tourism development on this territory.