About Koitere Dam

Koitere is a regulated lake in the North Karelia region of eastern Finland, draining via the Koitajoki river into Pielinen and ultimately into the Vuoksi system. Covering approximately 164 square kilometres, the lake was regulated in 1955 when the Pamilonkoski power station was constructed on the Koitajoki outlet. The reservoir holds around 170 million cubic metres. Koitere lies within one of the most ecologically valuable boreal forest landscapes in Finland; the adjacent Petkeljärvi–Putkelanharju National Park protects an ancient esker ridge system with exceptional biodiversity. The lake's waters drain through old-growth spruce and pine forests that shelter significant populations of white-tailed eagle, black stork, and lesser spotted woodpecker. The regulation regime on Koitere is considered relatively gentle compared to more intensively managed Finnish reservoirs, and the lake retains a largely natural ecological character. The Koitajoki valley is also significant for Karelian cultural heritage.