In 1978, with the construction of the Formin hydroelectric power station, the Drava River was created under the largest reservoir in Slovenia, Ptuj. The primary purpose of the 346-hectare, lined with forests and settlements, is to produce hydroelectric power. The artificial lake, 7.3 km long and 1.2 km wide, has an average depth of 12 meters and holds about 20 million m3 of water. The lake is also an important wetland, home to thousands of birds. About 230 bird species have been seen here so far. Since 1979, the reservoir and its surroundings have been part of the Šturmovci Nature Reserve. Rare bird species nest on two islands of the lake. Many people sail, water ski and paddle on the lake, and the rich fish fauna attract many anglers. There are sports fields on the beach. In summer, you can enjoy the beauty of the lake from a pleasure boat. Lake Ptuj is a real sea on land. The Drava River was created to develop hydroelectric power from the accumulated water. It is 420 hectares, making Ptuj the largest standing water in Slovenia. The lake has been part of the Šturmovci Nature Reserve since 1979. It is home to 230 bird species, many of which are highly endangered, depending on the dynamics of the Drava and Dravinja rivers.
