Water Resources of Turkey

This book provides an in-depth description of water resources of Turkey, a country with a unique geographical location, extending from the Mediterranean in Europe to the Middle East. Its varying geography, topography, hydrology, geology and climate are reflected in the diverse characteristics of its water basins. Furthermore, due to its geographical location, Turkey has a significant number of transboundary river basins and has to share its water resources with its neighbors, an issue that can sometimes lead to water conflicts. Turkey is also an interesting example of a developing country that is attempting to adapt to universal water management strategies while at the same time facing legal, institutional, economic and capacity development problems. It has long remained a water-rich country, but the situation is now changing due to the increasing population, inefficient use of resources, and the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation. This book is useful for national and international organizations as well as water resources professionals. It takes on an added significance in the light of climate change in the region, water management problems and transboundary water basins.