Evaluation of the anthropogenic impacts of Yusufeli dam in terms of landscape planning

Man-made degradation of nature, which has reached significant levels in the second half of the twentieth century, seems to occupy the worlds agenda for a long time. The rising of the world population and consequently the increasing need for energy and food have enhanced the pressures and damages on natural resources. These degradations lead to disruptions in the ecosystem functions and sometimes irreversible deterioration in natural balance. The aim of this study was to determine the anthropogenic pressures in the construction and production processes of the Yusufeli Dam. Kılıçkaya, Öğdem and Yusufeli regions were chosen as the study area because they were affected by the Yusufeli Dam. Satellite images and GIS software were used to determine the anthropogenic effects. As a result of the study, it was determined that the water surface of approximately 33 km2 will be formed with the water retention of Yusufeli Dam. After the completion of the Yusufeli Dam, 612 ha forest and 62 ha agricultural fields will be destroyed. In the assessment of land capability it was determined that 100% of class I, 69% of class II, 81% of class III, 7% of class IV, 1% of class VI, and 1% of class VII will remain within the dam reservoir area. The new settlement area where Yusufeli district will moved has area of 640 ha and consists of three parts. A significant amount of excavation and filling operations have been carried out to create these areas. According to the zoning plan in the new settlement, 21.6 ha for 1300 residences, 9.65 ha for active green areas and 5.1 ha for passive green areas were planned. In this study, planning suggestions are also presented to minimize the negative consequences of anthropoenic effects caused by Yusufeli Dam.