The lake extends across five districts of Novosibirsk Oblast: Zdvinsky, Barabinsky, Chanovsky, Kupinsky and Chistoozyorny.

[4] Studies revealed that there is a risk of the dam collapsing, which would lead to water runoff from the eastern part of the lake flooding the former basin and a negative environmental impact.

In 2000 an official decision was taken for the maintenance and overhaul of the dam, and in 2005 funds were allocated from the federal budget for its reconstruction.

[8][9][10] There are about 70 islands on the lake:[11] Amelkina Griva, Shuldikov, Lezhan, Medvezhy, Colpachok, Chinyaikha, Cheryomukhovy, Uzkoredky, Cheryomushkin, Kobyly, Perekopny, Bekarev, Kalinova, Shipyagin, Krugly, Kolotov, Kamyshny etc.

Severe storms are frequent on Chany, during a powerful wind, high waves occur on the surface of the lake.