Research on the sui̇tabi̇li̇ty of protected area statuses i̇n the eastern black sea regi̇on

This study examines the suitability of protected area statuses in the Eastern Black Sea Region of Türkiye within a scientific framework, aiming to analyze the processes of status determination for these areas. The main objective of the research is to classify natural areas under different protection statuses based on scientific data and to evaluate the contribution of the findings to conservation policies and management strategies. In this study, data obtained through questionnaires administered to technical staff selected from provinces in the Eastern Black Sea Region of Türkiye were analyzed using descriptive statistics and discriminant analysis methods. The results of the discriminant analysis indicate that nature conservation areas stand out in terms of scientific, ecological, and conservation-oriented functions, while national parks demonstrate higher suitability levels with respect to tourism, sustainable use, and the protection of cultural values. Nature parks, on the other hand, were evaluated as having lower suitability levels compared to the other two protected area types. According to the descriptive analysis results, the area values of the majority of protected areas were evaluated as "suitable," and the need for area expansion was identified for only one nature park. While most nature parks support their current protection status, some were found to be more appropriately evaluated under nature conservation area or national park status. In conclusion, the statistical analyses conducted in this study provide a scientific and objective assessment of the suitability of protected area statuses in the Eastern Black Sea Region and offer a holistic approach to the classification and management of the examined areas. The findings are expected to contribute significantly to the development of sustainable nature conservation strategies in Türkiye.