The Platys Potamos is considered one of the largest rivers of Crete, and one of the most important ecosystems in the area of the Municipality of Koureton. The Platys Potamos gathers the waters of the streams of Southwestern Psiloritis and after traveling a long distance, through the valleys of Amari and the Asomathianos plain, it finally ends to the southern Cretan Sea, specifically at Agia Galini.
Unlike most of the island’s rivers that remain dry during the summer months, water flows in Platys Potamos almost throughout the year. Thus, along the river, there is intense riparian vegetation with clumps of sycamore, oleander willow, myrtle, reeds, as well as the typical Mediterranean maquis (shine), etc. Also, several species of Cretan fauna can be seen on its shores, such as the Cretan Frog, the tree frog, the water turtle, and the water snake, while several migratory birds, such as herons and others, are attracted to its estuary.
In recent years, the waters of the river have fed the Vizari reservoir, serving the irrigation needs of the region.
