A water deficit of 66 million cubic meters was detected in Burdur Lake annually.

Burdur Lake in the Grasp 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 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 noted 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 the 8.5 million cubic meters of water to be obtained from the wastewater treatment plant in Isparta.

Water Deficit Issue and Climate Change

Minister Yumaklı emphasized that an average of 179 million cubic meters of water loss occurs in Burdur Lake every year, and 78% of this is due to evaporation. In contrast, the amount of water entering the lake is only 112 million cubic meters. In this case, an annual water deficit of 66 million cubic meters occurs.

Goal of Closing 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 achieve 50 million cubic meters of water savings. The action plans will be implemented under three main headings with 8 main actions and 35 sub-measures.

Community Collaboration and Goals

Yumaklı emphasized the need to work together with all stakeholders in the community, drawing attention to the necessity of a joint effort for the protection and effective use of water resources. He noted that the action would be an important step in combating drought issues nationwide.

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