GIS based sectoral conflict analysis in a coastal district of Turkey

Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) has recently become an important topic in Turkey as the country is surrounded by seas from the three sides. An application of ICZM is done in this study for the selected district of Akcakoca along the Black Sea Coast of Turkey. A methodology developed within Tacis/EuropeAid projects (1998-2003) with the aim of supporting management decisions is tested in the overall project that is engaged to Istanbul Technical University (ITU) by the United Nations. Specifically in this paper emphasis is given to displaying the sectoral conflicts in the form of digital maps to the decision makers with the aim of presenting the actual land use activities. It is the duty of regional authorities to further develop spatial plans by utilizing the sectoral conflict maps. For this purpose, a baseline survey on the geological, climatic, hydrological conditions together with other environmental characteristics of the district are reviewed and further determined by the group of experts. At this stage, Remote Sensing (RS) and GIS technologies are used to produce necessary thematic maps. Besides, field trips are realized to the area to better evaluate the maps produced. Stakeholders meetings at each of the site visits are also organized by the Akcakoca Municipality to share the findings of the study.