History Lake Herrera

drymaeus nigrofasciatus, land snail around lake herrera



el burro, similar wetland lake herrera

investigations archaeologist gonzalo correal urrego in 1984 have revealed existence of preceramic site 2 layers. oldest layer has been dated @ 3410 years bp , younger layer @ 3135 bp.

correal urrego has discovered preceramic tools , wooden beams in horizontal position, possibly used against lake overflowing. different stone tools found scrapers , chips sharp edges. other tools handles, , white-tailed deer bone tools perforation, scarping , cutting. evidence of fireplaces , burial grounds has been uncovered. 1 of burial sites contained full skeleton surrounded 5 skulls. remains of fauna collected hunter-gatherers mammals, birds , snails. presence of basalt, not formed on altiplano, indicated movement magdalena valley.

when climatic conditions became drier , layers of volcanic ash deposited around lake in first millennium bce, inhabitants of region started develop agriculture around lake.

later excavations have provided ceramic typical red colour, rich in sio2.

the lake residual part of lake humboldt, since 1973 functions artificial lake after construction of drainage channels. lake fed bojacá river northeast , san josé channel, fed bogotá river in southwest. between 1969 , 2013 surface area of lake has been reduced 175 hectares (430 acres).

recent mining activities close lake endanger environment of lake herrera, formalised water reserve on july 23, 2006.