Reforestation of degraded areas after forest fire: the case of nallihan and bozyaka forest sub-district directorate

In this master's thesis study, the growth performance of Anatolian black pine (Pinus nigra Arn. subsp. pallasiana var. caramanica) seedlings was examined in experimental plots established in the Bozyaka and Nallıhan Forest Sub-District Directorates, located within the borders of Ankara Province, following the forest fire that occurred in 2020. The aim of the research is to evaluate the effects of different soil preparation methods (terracing and bulldozer plowing), elevation levels (800–1350 m), and aspects (north, northeast, south, southeast) on seedling growth. For this purpose, a total of 30 sample areas were established, and seedling height and root collar diameter measurements were conducted in each plot. In the study, seedling height and diameter data were analyzed according to the designated experimental sites, and the results were tested using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). According to the findings, seedlings in the Bozyaka Forest Sub-District showed better morphological development compared to those in the Nallıhan Forest Sub-District. Particularly in areas with a northern aspect, at an elevation of 1100 m, and prepared with the terracing method, 2+0 seedlings reached the highest growth values, with an average height of 62.02 cm and a root collar diameter of 2.46 mm. In contrast, the lowest growth values were observed in areas prepared with bulldozer plowing, with a southeastern aspect, and located above 1300 m elevation. The study revealed that considering site characteristics in post-fire reforestation practices is critical for seedling growth. The findings are expected to serve as a guide for similar studies to be conducted under comparable ecological ditions.