Kelbra Dam, Embankment dam in Goldene Aue, Germany.

The Kelbra Dam is an earth-fill embankment dam on the Helme River, built from 1962 to 1966 between Berga and Kelbra. Its main dam has a 4,066 m long crest and is 7 m high above the valley floor; an acute-angled auxiliary dam is 3,379 m long. Both dams have a sloping internal clay seal on the water side. The reservoir covers about 6 km² and holds 12.3 million m³ at a gauge of 155.25 m above sea level.

The Kelbra Dam was built from 1962 to 1966 between Berga and Kelbra in the Goldene Aue. It was originally planned only as a dry flood retention basin, but a main dam was added to create a permanent lake and an auxiliary dam to absorb high water. Trial impounding lasted until 1969, when the structure was officially taken into service.

Since 1978 the reservoir has been protected under the Ramsar Convention as a retreat for birds. During migration up to 17,000 cranes rest here, according to the German article, while the English article gives 10,000; large flocks of larks and finches also pass through. Birdwatchers can regularly spot white-tailed eagles, ospreys, peregrines and bitterns.

Visitors can explore the reservoir area on foot or by bicycle, with pathways accessible around the water. The location is open year-round, though seasons affect bird watching conditions and water levels.

During the autumn migration up to 17,000 cranes rest on the reservoir, according to the German Wikipedia article; the English article gives 10,000. The lake has been a Ramsar protected area since 1978, covering 14.53 km² together with the retention area.