Management and silvicultural evalution of honey forests in Aydın region

Rich flora and the coexistence of different climate zones, Türkiye possesses a highly favorable ecological structure for beekeeping. To support the development of beekeeping, the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has implemented the Honey Forest Action Plan(2013-2017), under which honey forests have been established to contribute both to regional economic welfare and the national economy. This study aims to examine the effective use of honey forests in the Aydın Region and evaluate them from a silvicultural perspective. Field research was conducted in honey forests located within Aydın's administrative borders, and a closed-ended questionnaire was administered to 90 beekeepers from various districts. According to the survey results, beekeepers face challenges in finding suitable accommodation, lack information about the established honey forests, experience reduced productivity per hive due to the intensifying climate crisis, and report bee losses caused by uncontrolled pesticide use. Field observations revealed that the Yeniköy Honey Forest in Karacasu is the most active site among the established forests, while many others have lost functionality. Honey forests contribute not only to apiculture but also to the restoration and enhancement of forest ecosystems. Particularly in the rehabilitation of degraded stands, honey forests play a dual role by providing both ecological and economic benefits. Increasing the number of such initiatives is vital for preserving native flora species and protecting bee colonies from harmful agricultural practices. For the sustainability of beekeeping, honey forests must be developed in ecologically suitable areas to ensure active use by beekeepers, accompanied by effective land management policies.