Råcksta Träsk

Story

Råcksta Träsk is a small lake in the western suburbs of Stockholm, Sweden. Notwithstanding its location in the vicinity of the Swedish capital and high levels of lead and copper, the lake is considered as an important breeding ground for frogs, of moderate interest to pleasure fishing, and of minor interest for birds. There are three other small lakes located nearby: Judarn, Kyrksjön, and Lillsjön.Catchment areaThe catchment area is mostly composed of forest and open terrain part of the Grimsta nature reserve, with several minor wetlands. 20 percent of the catchment area is composed of residential buildings and 10 per cent of roads. 300 metres downstream is a historical mill administrated by a society devoted to local culture and history (Vällingby hembygdsförening) with limited means to regulate the water level. West of the lake is a grass-grown peak composed of excavated material from the construction of the suburbs Vällingby and Hässelby. Several heavily trafficked roads and a metro track passes above ground through the catchment area. 7 hectares of the area is occupied by the Råcksta Crematorium and its cemetery. The lake and the surrounding area is regarded as of great recreational value. Pathways were arranged around the lake in the 1970s, angling is popular, and, occasionally, a skating-rink is ploughed on the lake during winters.