A water shortage of 66 million cubic meters was identified in Lake Burdur annually.

Burdur Lake in the Clutches of Global Climate Change

The Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı made important statements regarding the Burdur Lake Action Plan. Minister Yumaklı stated that Burdur Lake has critical ecological importance.

The Importance of Burdur Lake on the Ecosystem

Burdur Lake, which is protected as a Ramsar Site, hosts endangered species and is the seventh largest lake in Turkey. The lake has a closed basin and is notable for its high evaporation rate. It was reported that the average rainfall in the lake during the first 11 months of 2023 was only 304 mm. It is aimed to close part of this gap with 8.5 million cubic meters of water to be provided from the Isparta wastewater treatment plant.

Water Deficit Problem and Climate Change

Minister Yumaklı emphasized that an average of 179 million cubic meters of water loss occurs annually in Burdur Lake, with 78% of it due to evaporation. In contrast, he noted that only 112 million cubic meters of water enters the lake. In this situation, an annual water deficit of 66 million cubic meters occurs.

Goal to Close the Water Deficit with the Action Plan

Minister Yumaklı stated that the action plans prepared for the future of Burdur Lake require a total investment of 5.8 billion lira and aim to save 50 million cubic meters of water. The action plans will be implemented under three main headings, comprising 8 main actions and 35 sub-measures.

Societal Cooperation and Goals

Yumaklı emphasized the need to act in cooperation with all stakeholders in society, highlighting the necessity of a joint struggle for the protection and efficient use of water resources. He stated that the action would be an important step in combating the drought problems across the country.

In conclusion, Minister Yumaklı expressed that the Burdur Lake Action Plan has great significance at both local and national levels, saying, "We must all work together to protect this natural wonder."