Bio-diversity

Eregli Marshes is an Important Bird Area (IBA) and also one of the remaining two homes to endemic and endangered fish species, Phoxinellus anatolicus. Several important waterfowl species such as the White Pelican, Spoonbill, Greater Flamingo, Pigmy Cormorant, White-headed Duck and Dalmatian Pelican (irregular breeder) use the area for breeding purposes. The wetland is also a nesting area for White Pelicans on migration and a wintering area for some birds like Crane and Ruddy Shelduck. Due to its importance, the area has been declared a NATURAL SIT (1992) and a NATURE RESERVE (1995). However, unsustainable water use is still threatening the wetland. Due to low-water levels the waterfowl numbers have been declining in the past years. This project aims to achieve conservation of the wetland as well as the sustainability of the particular ecosystem, through wise use of the most important resource, water. The NGO will work together with the Regional Agriculture Directorate in educating the farmers, who form an important section of water-users, about efficient irrigation systems through demonstration and informaiton (training on irrigation systems and seminars and meetings). There will be two demonstration sites, one through the installation of a sprinkling irrigation system and the other one through the installation of water-efficient appliances (such as taps) at the pilot school building to replace conventional ones. Water Audits will be carried out at these sites regularly to compare the water efficiencies of the old and new systems. The project will also help capacity building of the said NGO, improving its structure and training its staff on issues like project management and development, as well as improving its communication with other NGOs..

Turkey