Türkiye unveils $140 million action plan to save Lake Burdur

Türkiye’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has announced a major initiative to protect Lake Burdur from drought and ecological degradation. Minister Ibrahim Yumakli unveiled the Lake Burdur Action Plan, which aims to restore water levels, preserve wildlife, and ensure sustainable water management over the next five years.

The government plans to invest approximately ₺6 billion (around $140 million) as part of this effort.

Massive investment and water recovery target

The plan is expected to add 50 million cubic meters of water annually to the lake basin, addressing the gap between water inflow and evaporation losses. “Lake Burdur has lost significant water over the years, with evaporation accounting for 78% of the loss. This investment will help restore ecological balance and secure the future of this vital water body,” Yumakli said.

Yumakli announced that they had made a decision at the National Water Council to develop action plans for the country's major lakes, including Egirdir, Beysehir, Aksehir, Eber, Bafa, Burdur, Iznik, Seyfe and Sapanca, with the first plan for Egirdir Lake already announced and implementation underway.

A view of Burdur Lake, Türkiye’s seventh-largest lake. December 22, 2025. (AA Photo)

Three-pronged action plan

The action plan includes 35 sub-measures under three main categories:

1. Ecosystem-based integrated water management: Managing agricultural water use, developing alternative water sources, monitoring water use and protecting water quality.
2. Efficient and sustainable water use: Modernizing irrigation systems, improving water efficiency, delaying certain projects and conducting education and awareness campaigns.
3. Natural resource conservation: Reducing dust and other environmental risks using nature-based solutions while protecting public health.

Yumakli emphasized that modern, pressurized irrigation systems will be further promoted, with government support and incentives for farmers who adopt these methods.

The minister also revealed that Türkiye is finalizing a new water law that will mandate modern irrigation practices nationwide, aiming to eliminate inefficient water use and enhance agricultural sustainability.

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ibrahim Yumakli outlines the Lake Burdur Action Plan during a briefing. Burdur, Türkiye, December 22, 2025. (AA Photo)

“Every drop of water is critical. This plan is not just about saving a lake, it is about protecting ecosystems, ensuring sustainable production and securing the future of our resources,” Yumakli stated.

The ministry anticipates that as the action plan is implemented, additional benefits will emerge. With favorable meteorological conditions, it is expected that the lake’s water levels will stabilize, helping to restore its ecological balance.

Yumakli expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the plan, emphasizing its significance not only for Burdur and the surrounding region but for Türkiye as a whole.

December 22, 2025 04:08 PM GMT+03:00