Abstract
The current study examines the interactions of people living around Lake Eber with the lake and their use of it from a cultural and political ecology perspective. In this context, fieldworks were carried out in different periods of 2018-2019. At the same time, observations and interviews covering the research subject were carried out. In the study, it was determined that aquatic plants such as common reed, reedmace, lakeshore bulrush and common cattail are cut from the Lake Eber and are used as building materials and in the production of rush mats, beach umbrellas, prayer rugs, reed pillows, floor mats (straw) and tomb mats. On the other hand, it was observed that the interest in reed-cane craftsmanship and the production of reed-cane products is decreasing every year. This is caused by drought, pollution and eutrophication processes seen in the lake. Based on the results of the study, we suggest that more field studies should be done to examine the factors that threaten the lake ecology and projects should be conducted to improve the situation in the lake.
Highlights
Wetlands are home to migratory birds, various mammals, reptiles, terrestrial and aquatic creatures and various fish species
The discovery of the contribution of wetlands to the protection of water quality and the prevention of floods led to initiatives to protect these areas
The current study aims to examine the reed-cane craftsmanship and the reedcane products produced from Lake Eber, which allows various activities through its ecological resources from a cultural and political ecology perspective
Summary
Wetlands are home to migratory birds, various mammals, reptiles, terrestrial and aquatic creatures and various fish species. They are an indispensable element of wildlife and make important contributions to supporting ecological diversity and nutrition network, increasing water quality, regulating the water regime, and and balancing the local climate It provides opportunities for various economic activities with its features allowing fishing, water supply, transportation, animal husbandry, hunting, reed-cane cutting and recreational activities (bird watching, water sports, camping, photography, accommodation) (Mitsch & Gosselink, 2015; Arı, 2006; Güney, 1995; Korkmaz & Gürbüz, 2008). The current study aims to examine the reed-cane craftsmanship and the reedcane products produced from Lake Eber, which allows various activities through its ecological resources from a cultural and political ecology perspective In this context, the past and present of reed-cane craftsmanship, the usage of plants, the products obtained, and the developments and changes in the production have been studied
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