SOIL STABILIZATION AND LANDSCAPE REHABILITATION STUDIES IN EROSION AREAS: CAPAKCUR MICROCATCHMENT EXAMPLE

Erosion is a serious problem all over the world as in Turkey. The main cause of erosion in Turkey is the destruction ot natural resources. The productivity function of lands is decreased due to the transported soil along with various minerals and organic matter, dams loss their functions long before their estimated economic life, and floods cause the loss of life and property. The negative effects of erosion on structures of natural areas can be diminished by landscape rehabilitation studies. Within the scope of this study, 855,716 ha area including Yelesen, Saban and Orta-koy villages in the Capakcur Microcatchment of the Bingol Province Central District was investigated and soil samples were collected. Landscape analysis was carried out for water, erosion and habitat functions, which are the most important components of the planning stage for the landscape rehabilitation studies. This study was also conducted to determine the erosion sensitivity and measures to be taken for a total of 855,716 ha land. The results showed that 11.68% (100,097 ha) of the study area is within the 1st degree sensitivity class, 5.24% (26,625ha) is in the 2nd degree sensitivity class, 16.15% (138,335ha) is in the 3rd degree of erosion sensitivity class and 69.03% (590,659 ha) is in 4th degree of sensitivity class. Plant growth, soil improvement, water quality, drainage, slope sensitivity and erosion status in the repaired areas should be periodically monitored after the completion of all operations. Fieldworks should be finalized with the completion and renewal planting following the erosion monitoring.