Despite freezing cold, locals brave frost to harvest reeds from wetlands

Despite the bitter cold, locals in Sultan Reeds near the foothills of Mount Erciyes begin harvesting the 4-meter-long reeds in the early hours of the morning. Braving frost and icy winds, they work tirelessly to collect the reeds that will support both local livelihoods and wildlife habitats.

Depending on the terrain and reed density, harvesters use a mix of traditional hand tools and modern machinery. The reeds are carefully bundled into “ties” and collected, ensuring efficiency while maintaining the natural balance of the wetlands.

Sultan Reeds is a crucial stopover for migratory birds. Harvesting is timed so that it does not interfere with the birds’ migration, preserving the delicate ecosystem and ensuring that both wildlife and humans benefit from the reeds.

Harvesters endure extreme cold, often working in temperatures as low as -15 to -20 degrees Celsius.

For the villagers, harvesting reeds is more than a seasonal job, it’s a vital source of income. Many workers have spent decades in the wetlands, raising families and sustaining their homes through the fruits of this labor-intensive work.

Depending on the condition of the reed beds, locals harvest the tall reeds using a combination of traditional hand tools and modern machinery. After cutting, the reeds are carefully bundled into “ties” and collected in a designated area, ready to be used in animal shelters, barns and other local needs.