The Lament of the Lakes Region 3: Contribution Provided to TÜBİTAK 4004 Project

Contribution to the “Lament of the Lakes Region 3: TÜBİTAK 4004 Project”

Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) Wildlife Conservation, Rehabilitation Application and Research Center contributed to the nature education and awareness project titled “Lament of the Lakes Region 3” held between September 29 – October 3, 2025. The project, conducted under the TÜBİTAK 4004 – Nature Education and Science Schools Support Program, aimed to draw attention to the negative effects of global climate change and drought on lakes.

MAKÜ Wildlife Conservation Application and Research Center Director Dr. Lecturer Yasemin Özdemir participated in the events at Kovada Lake (Isparta) on October 1 and Burdur Lake (Burdur) on October 2, providing information on bird populations in lake ecosystems. Teachers were given both theoretical and field-based information on the importance of wetlands for biological diversity, the life cycles of migratory bird species, and conservation measures that can be taken against threats.

Lakes and the Threat of Drought

As part of the project, participants received field training in important wetlands such as Burdur Lake, Salda Lake, Kovada Lake, Eğirdir Lake. Additionally, the effects of lake drying on agriculture, economy, tourism, environmental health, and biological diversity were addressed by experts. Topics such as the reasons for lake recession, pollution factors, the decrease of aquatic life, and the disruption of ecosystem balances were discussed.

Participants, under the guidance of Dr. Yasemin Özdemir, conducted bird observations at Burdur and Kovada lakes, which are significant habitats for migratory birds, gaining awareness about the conservation of natural life. It was also emphasized that the presence of flamingos and other water bird species in the region is an indicator of the continuity of the lake ecosystem.

On-Site Training for Teachers

24 teachers affiliated with the Ministry of National Education, selected from different provinces of Turkey, participated in the project. Participants took part in a total of 36 activities with expert academicians, nature educators, and guides. In addition to theoretical lessons, direct field observations helped increase teachers' awareness of nature consciousness and environmental education.

Dr. Lecturer Yasemin Özdemir stated in her evaluation:

“Wetlands are of vital importance not only for birds but for the entire ecosystem and humanity. Every individual has a responsibility in the conservation of lakes, sustainable management of water resources, and the continuity of natural life. Such projects are of great importance in instilling environmental awareness in new generations through teachers.”