Distribution of forest areas according to physiographic features in Mersin province (South of Turkey)

Abstract

In this study, the distribution of forest areas according to physiographic features (slope, aspect, altitude and distance to the sea) in Mersin province has been examined. Numerical forest areas prepared by the General Directorate of Forestry have been divided into two, according to the management class, as productive (regular grove) and non-productive (poor) forests. Physiographic features have been obtained from 10 m resolution DEM image. According to these properties productive forest areas are widespread on the northern slopes of the mountainous areas, especially at an evaluation of 500-1000 m, and inland part of the study area which is far 30 km from the sea. Non-productive forests generally are seen around the productive forest areas and transitional areas to the other land use areas. Non-productive forest areas mainly spread in a larger area at the inclination groups of all southern slopes, especially at 1000-1500 m altitude, and 30-60 km away from the sea. Productive forests are mainly common on the rugged karstic lands, while unproductive forests are found on the slopes facing south, marly erosional surface and degenerated/destroyed areas.