Rusaset lake in Ørlandet - restoring nature's balance

Rusasetvatnet and Austråttborgen

Rusasetvatnet was for many centuries closely connected to Austrått, serving among other things as the manor’s source of food. Hunting and pike fishing took place here, and the dam in the lake supplied water to the mill located where Dalebakken Mill stands today.

Today, this is the most visited outdoor recreation and activity area in Ørland, following the completed restoration of Rusasetvatnet. Walking paths now link key sites such as Austråttborgen, Rusasetvatnet, and Austråttlunden. The Rusaset area has once again become an important place for outdoor life and recreation.

Ørland’s largest freshwater lake, located at the foot of Rusasetfjellet, once offered rich fishing and wildlife. The damming of Rusasetvatnet was carried out in the 17th century to establish mill operations during the golden age of Austrått. At its largest, the water surface covered as much as 400 decares (approximately 100 acres). The lake was drained through various interventions in the 1980s and 1990s, which resulted in a loss for birdlife in the area and for the local community’s recreational opportunities.

The restoration of Rusasetvatnet

Ørland Kultursenter initiated the restoration work in 2013. It became one of Norway’s largest freshwater and wetland restoration projects of its kind. The process was long and highly challenging, and the work carried out has been groundbreaking for similar and future projects.

October 13, 2016, marked a milestone. On that day, the dam was closed and the refilling of the lake began. Weather conditions were favorable, and after just three weeks, abundant birdlife was recorded. Flocks of 60–90 Eurasian teal gathered at the lake, creating optimism for the coming season. Otters quickly appeared to inspect the area, and flocks of swans soon settled at Rusasetvatnet. This clearly demonstrates the project’s significant environmental impact.

Great importance for human and environmental health

The restoration has also had major social benefits. The area is now heavily visited and has become a new hiking and recreation area for the local population.

In 2017, the first year after the lake was re-established, 860 whooper swans were counted roosting on the lake early one morning in March. The breeding season confirmed that nature restoration works. The constructed bird islands were used by several species, including three pairs of northern lapwing — especially encouraging since the lapwing had disappeared as a breeding bird from mainland Ørland. Red-throated diver, common crane, and greylag goose also nested on the bird islands.

The restoration of Rusasetvatnet and the development of walking trails in the area have had great importance for the residents of Ørland municipality. Interest in the area extends far beyond the municipality’s borders.