Political and cultural ecology of lake avlan and its surroundings in terms of wetland legislation and status

Cultural ecology is a discipline that explores the interactions between humans and their natural environment, emphasizing how these interactions are influenced by cultural factors. Political ecology, in contrast, focuses on the interplay between politics and environmental change, analyzing the social and environmental consequences of environmental policies and resource distribution. This research aims to provide a deeper understanding of human-environment interactions, emphasizing the cultural and political dimensions of these interactions. In this context, the study has thoroughly examined the relationship between the local community around Avlan Lake and the wetland, as well as the effects of environmental policies and social structures on the natural environment, analyzing the outcomes of these interactions. In order to better understand how the local community near Avlan Lake interacts with the wetland, 66 individuals in the study area were interviewed using semi-structured methods. The information gathered from these interviews underwent analysis through ethnographic and content analysis approaches. This examination elucidated the dynamics between the local community and the wetland, along with the transformations observed in Avlan Lake. The findings indicate that Avlan Lake is at risk of drying up due to both natural and human-induced factors in its vicinity. The drying of the lake has led to a decrease in biodiversity, agricultural production quality, and groundwater levels in the study area. Additionally, it has resulted in increased land surface and soil temperatures. This situation has caused a reduction in biodiversity and a higher risk of medium-scale fires in the area. Moreover, the ecosystem of Avlan Lake has been harmed by fishing activities in the lake and small-scale livestock farming on the dried lakebed. The drying of Avlan Lake has resulted in the loss of habitats for many plant and animal species in the area, leading to economic and social losses for the local community. Therefore, to protect Avlan Lake, it is necessary to implement sustainable land use practices, establish legally supported protected areas, and raise public awareness.