Determination of the contribution of protected areas to tourism in Gümüşhane province

Protected areas within natural landscapes are classified according to the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Special measures are aimed at preserving endemic and rare species. Additionally, improving the economic and social well-being of the local population is a key strategic goal. The participation of local communities in sustainable tourism practices is encouraged to ensure their involvement in conservation efforts. This contributes to the socio-cultural development of natural areas. This study focuses on the protected areas of Tomara Waterfall, Limni Lake, Çağlayandibi Waterfall, and Artabel Lakes, located in Gümüşhane province. The research aims to support the development of sustainable management strategies, assist decision-makers in conserving biodiversity and ecological integrity, and provide concrete data for the protection of these ecosystems. Between 2016 and 2019, Tomara Waterfall and Limni Lake were the most visited sites, with visitor numbers peaking in 2019. That year, Tomara Waterfall received 143.330 visitors, Limni Lake 87.714 Çağlayandibi Waterfall 10.910 and Artabel Lakes 2.680 However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, visitor numbers significantly declined to 34.960, 34.960, 2.100 and 100, respectively. By 2021, recovery had begun. The decline in visitors during the pandemic highlighted the economic impact of tourism in protected areas. The study will analyze the effects of ecotourism activities in Gümüşhane's protected areas and provide future conservation strategies for planners. Alternative solutions will be proposed to ensure economic contributions align with ecosystem balance. Keywords: Ecotourism, Protected area, Nature park, Visitor numbers