Water regime challenges and ecohydrological risks in the Lakes Region (Türkiye): Problems and strategic recommendations
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: In the Göller Region, multiple factors such as drinking water quality, mineralogical features, and regional vegetation influence how suitable water resources are for irrigation purposes. Rock structure of the region is generally volcanic and limestone, and partly conglomerate. This structure is very effective in composition of the water. Karacaören Baraj Lake is very rich in arsenic (As); water of Gölcük Lake is very rich in fluoride (F). Burdur and Salda lakes cannot be used for irrigation purposes. Salda Lake is extremely soda; low in salt and high in alkaline. Fauna and flora are poor in such lakes. The main reason why its water is not drinkable is serpentine rocks and sulphure beds around it. Akşehir Lake, Beyşehir Lake and Eğirdir Lake have been experiencing water scarcity in recent years. Eber Lake and Çorakgöl have largely dried up. Waters of Burdur and Eğirdir lakes are gradually decreasing and the composition of the water is deteriorating due to pollutant inputs and evaporation. The decrease in water input and narrowing of the lake bed are the most important factors. The dams built on the streams feeding the lakes, decrease in precipitation and increase in evaporation and also tectonic movements, have brought the lake to its current state. Water resources must be well protected from various pollution sources. Due to water scarcity in the region, ways are being sought to benefit from water resources that are of poor quality and unsuitable for use. It is recommended to grow some plants in purification of water contaminated with heavy metals and polluted water. This purified water can be used in agricultural production, industry and cleaning works. In residences and workplaces, 2-line water installations should be installed, one for cleaning works and the other for drinking water, and the price of drinking water should be more expensive than water for cleaning purposes. The purpose of this article is to draw attention to water regime and faulty practices in the Göller Yöresi; to make some suggestions to implementing persons and institutions in order to protect the ecosystem. This study is based on long-term ecological and floristic field observations conducted since 1994 in the Lakes Region. Approximately 2000 vascular plant specimens were collected, identified, and preserved in the GUL Herbarium, and additional technical reports and floristic inventories were utilized. Detailed assessments were made through on-site inspections of Burdur, Salda, and Eğirdir lakes with a focus on hydrogeochemical and ecological properties.
Authors: Muca Yiğit, Belkıs, Özçelik, Hasan
Institution: Iğdır Üniversitesi
Language: English
Subfield: Water Science and Technology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7119208306
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