The Gediz Delta, located near Izmir and recognised as a site of international importance, is being revitalised through ecological restoration efforts. The “Sustainable Life for the Freshwater Ecosystem of the Gediz Delta” project, carried out in collaboration between Doga and İzmir Institute of Technology, has been launched with the aim of repairing ecological damage in the region and strengthening a sustainable management approach. As part of this initiative, the project seeks to restore the wet meadow habitats within the delta and enhance the capacities of local stakeholders and decision-makers.
Photographer: Mahmut Koyaş
The Gediz Delta is one of Turkey’s 14 Ramsar Sites and also holds the status of a natural conservation area, wildlife development site, and wetland protection zone. Thanks to its diverse habitats, the delta provides a home to thousands of species near the city of Izmir, with a population of over 4 million. However, it faces numerous threats, including limited water resources, pollution, overgrazing, exotic eucalyptus plantations, and illegal vehicle routes. Additionally, climate change-induced drought and irregular rainfall are causing significant losses in freshwater ecosystems. New initiatives are being planned to mitigate these threats and improve the region’s ecosystems.
In the coming months, activities such as monitoring groundwater levels, conducting soil analyses, and determining the carrying capacity for grazing animals will be carried out to develop a comprehensive pasture management plan. Additionally, ecological measures will be implemented to close illegal roads, convert eucalyptus plantation areas back into pastures, and restore fragmented pasture habitats.
Project Area and Plantation Site of the Exotic Plant Species Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn. Photographer: Canberk Günay
These efforts aim to build resilience against climate change by ensuring the sustainable management of habitats in the delta and increasing carbon sink areas. The goal is to reduce threats to the wet meadows and pasture areas in the southern part of the Gediz Delta, restore the area, and raise awareness. Supported by the “Donors Initiative for Mediterranean Freshwater Ecosystems (DIMFE),” this initiative marks a significant step towards protecting the freshwater ecosystems of the Gediz Delta and promoting a sustainable future.
For More Information and Contact:
Burçin Yaraşlı, Wetlands Specialist, Doga Dernegi (BirdLife in Türkiye)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +90 549 718 58 76
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