The relationship between geomorphological units and land use in Yüksekova (Hakkari) district

The increasing consumption rate parallel to the population growth causes the rapid depletion of natural resources. This situation makes it necessary to observe the principle of sustainability in the consumption of limited resources in nature. Indeed, the increasing population and developing technology also change the production-consumption patterns. Accordingly, human-nature relations need to be reviewed. The changes in land use along with the use of natural areas reveal the necessity of an effective land use planning. At this point, the concept of land use mentioned refers to people turning to nature in order to meet their needs and making the best use of natural resources. This thesis study is about determining the relationship between geomorphological units and land use in Yüksekova district of Hakkari province. In this direction, the aim of the study is to determine the physical and human geography features of Yüksekova district in detail and to determine the effects of these features on land use. In the study, mixed method was used by utilizing qualitative (document analysis) and quantitative (GIS analysis) data. It is seen that the land use in Yüksekova district is largely affected by physical conditions. The area where the plain in the center of the study area is located forms a simpler topography in terms of morphological features, while the surrounding area of the plain is quite mountainous and hilly. Depending on the geomorphological condition of the study area, population, settlement, agriculture, industry, trade and animal husbandry activities are predominantly spread in the interior, while activities such as mining and forestry are spread in the southern parts. In the northern parts, the unfavorable topography has limited human and economic activities.