The Mudurnu Stream Basin erosion sensitivity analysis

Erosion is among the important natural disasters due to the problems it poses. To solve these problems, it is necessary to conduct erosion sensitivity analysis, determine erosion sensitivity, and take precautions. The area under study is the Mudurnu Stream Basin, the second-largest water source of the Sakarya Basin and one of the important tributaries of the Sakarya River. The study area is an area exposed to anthropogenic effects such as settlement, road works, agricultural areas, and vegetation destruction. It is aimed to contribute to researchers and those who are interested in both the research field and the subject by examining the geographical features of the Mudurnu Stream Basin and making a soil erosion sensitivity analysis of the basin. While carrying out the study, data on the physical geography characteristics of the study area were prepared by conducting a literature review and field studies related to the research area. Topographic, geological, hydrographic, climatological, and land cover maps were created from these data, and then soil erosion sensitivity classes were determined by using ArcGIS software and analysing them according to the RUSLE (Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation) method. According to the results of the study, it was determined that vegetation cover, rainfall, and slope factors directly affect erosion, and the severity and sensitivity of soil erosion are high in areas with sparse vegetation where rainfall and slope increase. Furthermore, it has been observed that human factors, especially forest destruction, settlement, and unconscious use of agricultural areas, have significant effects on erosion in the basin. To mitigate the severity and the risk of soil erosion in the basin, it is crucial to protect the existing vegetation, provide training to farmers on agricultural activities, and carry out planning and afforestation activities and reclamation works in residential areas.