An Approach to the Planning and Environmental Geology of Erziıncan Plain and its Surroundings
ABSTRACT:Erzincan plain is located in an area, where earthquakes, landslides, avalanches, floods and other natural
disasters are mainly dominant in the upper part of Fırat River basin in the East Anatolian Region. Earthquakes of
various magnitudes occurred throughout the history of Erzincan. Earthquakes occurred in the 1939 and 1992 years
led to many casualties and lost of the properties. In the present study, in the light of regional and local geology of the
Erzincan Plain and vicinity considering its geomorphology, hydrogeology, natural resources, land-use capability,
currentland-use and its environmentel geology have been presented and related future land use planning have been
evaluated. Environmental systems have been defined in the frame of environmental geology. These systems are
mainly Erzincan Plain System, Ergandağ System and Man-made or Antropogenic System. Environmental units those
characterize each system have been identified. Thus, land-use capabilities of 26 environmental units have been evaluated depending on their general properties, index characteristics and natural disaster risks. The evaluations of
land-use capabilities have been carried out on the basis of land-use forms. The matters, which are necessary to be
considered to wards to the planning of the region in the future, have been presented. Based on the recommended plan,
it is possible to control a great deal of environmental problems and protect the Erzincan Plain and surroundings, as
well.