The removal of deep sludge that had long been present in Lake Mogan was undertaken to address pollution and foul odors that had plagued residents for years. Visitors to the lake felt that its beauty had been “spoiled.” The operation aimed at removing the deep sludge was initially perceived as a solution to the unpleasant odor and unattractive appearance of the lake, and the public welcomed this seemingly “positive” step.
However, once the process was completed, research initiated by Prof. Dr. Meryem Beklioğlu raised concerns about the potential negative effects of this intervention on the lake’s ecosystem. After the deep sludge and reeds were removed, most people focused on the perceived benefits of this cleanup and praised the municipality. However, some scientists expressed doubts, suggesting that such interventions could negatively impact the ecosystem in different ways. Through her ongoing research, Prof. Dr. Meryem Beklioğlu suggested that some of the negative changes in Lake Mogan could be directly linked to the removal of deep sludge.
Environmental Engineer Mehtap Varlık stated that the removal of deep sludge in Mogan Lake was conducted without sufficient research, emphasizing that such unplanned restoration projects might yield seemingly positive short-term results while causing long-term ecological damage. Ms. Varlık further added that improperly planned interventions could disrupt the ecological balance, leading to a decline in water quality, biodiversity loss, and even ecosystem collapse.
Additionally, Mehtap Varlık highlighted that when evaluated within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such restoration projects are directly connected to “Life Below Water” (Goal 14) and “Life on Land” (Goal 15). However, she cautioned that if the removal of deep sludge is carried out without proper planning, it may result in long-term damage to the lake ecosystem, ultimately failing to serve these goals.
As the removal of deep sludge and subsequent restoration procedures were identified as potential causes of Mogan Lake’s ecological decline, the effectiveness and consequences of the methods used were subject to criticism. The use of mechanical excavators for this purpose received intense backlash from both the public and many scientists. Although these rubber-tired construction machines, designed for digging, trenching, transporting, and loading, are theoretically efficient, their actual impact raised concerns. The operation of heavy machinery on soft ground not only disturbed the soil structure but also generated excessive noise and vibrations, negatively affecting both local wildlife and residents. Moreover, the dust and pollution caused by these excavators contributed to air and water pollution.
So, what do the “Water Transparency” and “Nutrient” data collected from the lake reveal?
The removal of deep sludge in Lake Mogan was initiated to address issues related to foul odors and algae accumulation. The primary goal was to enhance the ecological value of the lake, creating a cleaner and more livable environment for both humans and animals.
Approximately 3.5 million cubic meters of deep sludge were successfully removed from the lakebed. But did this removal of deep sludge truly lead to a positive ecological outcome? According to Prof. Dr. Meryem Beklioğlu, the removal and restoration process resulted in higher-than-normal levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, an unexpected increase in pH, and overall pollution.
Coskun and Demir’s Research shows that total phosphorus (TP) levels continued to rise in November 2022, ranging between 59.55 and 76.82, indicating a clear shift toward eutrophic conditions. This alarming trend persisted through February 2023, with TP levels fluctuating between 13.64 and 52.27. While some areas retained mesotrophic characteristics, others moved closer to eutrophic states, posing a serious threat to the ecological stability of the lake.
Coskun and Demir also indicates that water transparency measurements revealed significant variations, highlighting the lake’s response to increased nutrient levels. In August 2022, transparency values were notably low (1 to 1.4 meters), indicating hypertrophic conditions commonly associated with high nutrient loads and reduced water clarity. By February 2023, an improvement was observed (2.4 to 2.6 meters), suggesting a temporary recovery. However, by May 2023, transparency declined once again (1.4 to 2.2 meters), indicating a resurgence in nutrient loading and a return to hypertrophic conditions.
Conclusion: A Successful or Harmful Intervention?
Some people argue that the removal of deep sludge created a more favorable habitat for aquatic life, eliminated bad odors, and restored the ecological balance. The increase in tourist attraction was also cited as a positive outcome of this cleanup. However, many overlooked the broader ecological consequences, leading to divided opinions:
· Those who viewed the intervention as a success.
· Those who believed it caused significant ecological harm.
Both sides presented arguments supporting their perspectives. However, over time, the results have aligned more closely with Prof. Dr. Meryem Beklioğlu’s concerns. The long-term, irreversible problems that emerged—including water pollution, food chain disruption, increased carbon emissions, and oxygen depletion—have led many to reconsider the effectiveness of the operation.
In conclusion, the lesson to be learned is that nature’s balance should not be disturbed for superficial improvements. Restoration efforts must be preceded by comprehensive simulations and ecological impact assessments, ensuring that nature is protected rather than unintentionally harmed.
Resources
· Jeppesen, E., Kronvang, B., Olesen, J. E., Audet, J., Sondergaard, M., Hoffmann, C. C., Andersen, H. E., Lauridsen, T. L., Liboriussen, L., Larsen, S. E., Beklioglu, M., Meerhoff, M., Özen, A., & Özkan, K. (2011). Climate change effects on nitrogen loading from cultivated catchments in Europe: implications for nitrogen retention, ecological state of lakes and adaptation. Hydrobiologia 663, 1–21 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-010-0547-6
· Ceviz, A. E., & Akkaya, A. (n.d.). Ulusal Tez Merkezi. Gov.Tr. Retrieved from https://tez.yok.gov.tr/UlusalTezMerkezi/tezDetay.jsp?id=PKVfam8Yi_3SH7dtke1Kdw&utm
· Coşkun, D., & Demir, N. (2025, January). Evaluation of the current trophic status of Lake Mogan, a natural recreation area of Ankara (Türkiye). Conference Paperz
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