The dam's construction was initiated directly as a result of the catastrophic floods that struck the region in July 1897.
It is the highest-situated dam in the entire Jizera Mountain range.
The embankment is constructed from local rock-fill material with a central clay core for water tightness.
During winter, the surrounding area is a critical part of the Jizerská 50 cross-country skiing route.
The reservoir serves both as a flood prevention measure and a source of drinking water for the nearby city of Jablonec nad Nisou.
The Black Neisse Dam (Vodní nádrž Bedřichov) is an earth-fill embankment dam located in the Jizera Mountains, serving as a primary reservoir for the Jablonec nad Nisou region. Constructed between 1902 and 1905, it was engineered following a devastating flood in 1897 to provide flood protection and water supply. The dam spans the Černá Nisa river and covers a surface area of approximately 42 hectares. Its embankment reaches a height of 24 meters and spans a length of 340 meters at the crest. The reservoir holds approximately 2 million cubic meters of water. The site is a key node in the Jizera Mountains trail network, functioning as a popular destination for hikers and cross-country skiers. It is situated at an elevation of 775 meters above sea level. The dam remains fully operational and is managed by the state enterprise Povodí Labe.
The center of the dam's crest, offering a clear view of the water body with the forested Jizera peaks in the background.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots if planning to walk the perimeter trail, as paths can be muddy after rain.
Check local weather forecasts specifically for the Jizera Mountains, as conditions at this elevation change rapidly compared to the lowlands.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the surrounding forest and water reservoir attract various local avian species.
Attempting to swim in the reservoir, which is strictly prohibited to maintain water quality standards.
Maintain silence to respect the natural wildlife and refrain from swimming or polluting the water, as it is a protected drinking water source.