Correlation of desertification with land and water use in Turkey

Drought is defined as a natural event that occurs when the amount of precipitation is significantly less than normal, causing severe hydrological imbalances that negatively affect land resources and production systems. Majority of Turkey is located in the Mediterranean Climate Zone where significant differences in seasonal rainfall can be observed. Since one of the characteristics of the Mediterranean Climate Zone is the periodic variations of rainfall amounts, drought episodes are inevitable. As a result, drought is one of the climate-related problems that Turkey experiences and likely to encounter frequently. Along with that, incorrect use of land, wrong agricultural policy and the wastage of water added to the drought will have a very serious problem. Turkey experienced the worst drought in last 44 years in 2017, due to a substantial decrease in rain levels. Non-sustainable agricultural practices cause pollution of freshwater resources and deterioration of arable land. Freshwater resources constitute only 2.5 percent of the world's water resources. However, less than 1 percent of all freshwater resources can be used by ecosystems and people. Turkey utilizes approximately 75% of its fresh water for the irrigation and cultivation of its crops. In the current drought, Turkish farmers now need to irrigate and use their supply of water more effectively. Up until now poor irrigation techniques have not caused serious difficulties but it will be after that. Analysis of satellite images reveals the drought of many important water resources and agriculture regions in Turkey. Turkey Desertification Risk Map has been created based on all analysis and is of great importance for the future of the country. In this study, the impact of desertification will be emphasized, presented with maps and satellite imagery and the measures to be taken against the sensitivity of the subject will discussed.