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Intense rainfall in Izmir’s Menderes district has left many agricultural fields underwater. While such flooding might usually be a cause for concern, local farmers are taking proactive steps to protect their crops and land from long-term damage.
In Karakuyu neighborhood, sinkholes that first appeared in January 2019 have filled again after the recent heavy rains. These natural formations create a striking visual, drawing the attention of both locals and visitors who stop to take photos.
To prevent their crops from being ruined, farmers have begun digging wells in waterlogged areas of their fields. These wells channel excess rainwater underground, ensuring it doesn’t go to waste.
By combining man-made wells and naturally formed sinkholes, the community channels surface water underground. This practice helps preserve both the volume and quality of Izmir’s underground water reserves, safeguarding water resources for the future.
Water is directed 30–40 meters below ground through wells and natural formations. Once stored, it can be drawn back to the surface in the summer to irrigate crops and maintain soil health during dry periods.
The flooded fields and gleaming sinkholes create striking visuals that attract locals and visitors alike. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these landscapes serve an important ecological and practical role in water management.
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