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The southwestern part of Turkey is called the 'western Anatolia Extensional Province'. Today, there is an approximately N-S-oriented extension in this area. The seismically active region is characterized by E-W and N-S-trending grabens. The tectonism and evolution of Tavşanlı Graben, one of these grabens, during the Plio-Quaternary period are the main subjects of this study. The Tavşanlı Graben, about which there is no information in the literature, has been defined for the first time in this study, and the geometrical and kinematic properties, relative ages, and interrelationships of some Neogene-aged faults, especially Quaternary-aged faults, have been presented in the manuscript. The data obtained indicate strike-slip faulting in the late Pliocene in the region. These E-W striking faults and the basin they formed are the first in western Anatolia with these features. In the Quaternary, E-W-oriented normal faults were formed in the region. The asymmetric topography of the graben area is consistent with the other E-W-oriented grabens in western Anatolia. Late Cretaceous basement rocks and Miocene-aged units are observed at the margins of the graben, which are fragmented by faults. The fill of the graben is Quaternary-aged fan deposits and alluvium. In this study, it was determined that the Tavşanlı Basin, which started to form with a transtensional mechanism at the end of the Pliocene, was transformed into the Tavşanlı Graben in the Pleistocene. The basin formation, which started with directional faulting in the late Pliocene, evolved into a graben in the Quaternary, and reached its present form by completing its development in two phases, supports the views that adopt the multi-stage deformation of western Anatolia in the late Cenozoic. In addition to contributing to the literature on this subject, the article will also serve as a basis for future paleoseismological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

St. Nicholas Church is a remarkable Byzantine structure located in the Demre district of Antalya, in the southern region of Türkiye. The church and its accompanying tomb were built in the 5th century AD in memory of St. Nicholas after his death. It became a sacred cultural center and a pilgrimage site throughout the Middle Ages. Throughout history, the church underwent multiple reconstructions and substantial repairs necessitated by invasions, earthquakes, and other factors. During the Late Middle Ages, a flood of the river Myros submerged the church under approximately 6meters of alluvial deposits. The excavations, which began in 1862 and have continued intermittently to this day, have uncovered significant remains, which were subsequently restored in accordance with the conservation approach of their respective periods. However, certain ruins persist within privately owned areas. Although the church largely maintains its structural integrity, ongoing excavations within the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s designated areas in the monastery complex continually contribute new insights. This article aims to provide data on the restoration efforts undertaken on the church and its ruins, which now function as a Memorial Museum, preserving their original values during the restoration period of 2021- 2023. The primary goal is to contribute valuable insights for future restoration initiatives. Furthermore, the article seeks to advocate for the inclusion of the monument in the World Heritage List, the establishment of Site Management, and the enhancement of its global recognition. By making the newly unearthed spaces accessible to visitors, particularly for Russian pilgrims for whom the church holds significant religious importance, it is envisioned that this will not only foster faith and cultural tourism but also enrich the perception and interpretation of this historic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding earthquake phenomena is always challenging. The search for reliable precursors of earthquakes is important but requires systematic and long-time monitoring employing multi-disciplinary techniques. In search of possible precursors, we obtained commercially bottled spring waters dated before and after the earthquakes of 6 February 2023. Hydrogeochemical precursors have been detected in commercially bottled natural spring waters (Ayran Spring and Bahçepınar Spring), which are at a distance of about 100 and 175 km from the epicenters of the Mw 7.7 and Mw 7.6 Kahramanmaraş (Türkiye) earthquakes of 6 February 2023, respectively. The available water samples cover the period from March 2022 to March 2023. The pre-earthquake anomaly is characterized by an increase in electrical conductivity and major ions (Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , K + , Na + , Cl - , and SO 42-) compared to the background for Ayran Spring water samples. The pre-earthquake anomaly lasted for at least 6 months. The anomaly in major ions sharply declined and the ion content approached the background values about 2 weeks after the earthquakes. Although only 6.5 km away from the Ayran Spring, the bottled water samples of the Bahçepınar Spring did not show any anomalies in electrical conductivity; therefore, the samples were not analyzed for ion content. Bahçepınar water is collected from shallow boreholes dug into alluvial deposits, which we believe are decoupled from the basement rocks, and this may be the reason for the lack of abnormal water chemistry prior to the earthquakes. This attests to the fact that sampling locations are very important in the detection of possible earthquake precursors. Results of the Ayran spring water samples indicate that spring water chemical anomalies of discrete samples may provide valuable information on pre-earthquake crustal deformation. Monitoring of spring waters, along with other monitoring techniques in a multidisciplinary network, and for a sufficiently long time, could potentially enable obtaining reliable proxy indicators of pre-earthquake crustal deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding earthquake phenomena is always challenging. Search for reliable precursors of earthquakes are important but requires systematic and long-time monitoring employing multi-disciplinary techniques. In search of possible precursors, we obtained commercially bottled spring waters dated before and after the earthquakes of 6 February 2023. Hydrogeochemical precursors have been detected in commercially bottled natural spring waters (Ayran Spring and Bahçepinar Spring) which are at a distance of about 100 km and 175 km from the epicenters of the Mw 7.7 and Mw 7.6 Kahramanmaras (Türkiye) Earthquakes of 6 February 2023, respectively. The available water samples cover the period from March 2022 to March 2023. The pre-earthquake anomaly is characterized by an increase in electrical conductivity and major ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Na+, Cl–, and SO42–) compared to the background for Ayran Spring water samples. The pre-earthquake anomaly lasted for at least six months. The anomaly in major ions sharply declined and the ion content approached the background values about two weeks after the earthquakes. Although only 6.5 kilometers away from the Ayran Spring, the bottled water samples of the Bahçepinar Spring did not show any anomalies in electrical conductivity; therefore, the samples were not analyzed for ion content. Bahçepinar water is collected from shallow boreholes dug into alluvial deposits which we believe are decoupled from the basement rocks and this may be the reason for the lack of abnormal water chemistry prior to the earthquakes. This attests to the fact that sampling locations are very important in the detection of possible earthquake precursors. Results on the Ayran spring water samples indicate that spring water chemical anomalies of discrete samples may provide valuable information on pre-earthquake crustal deformation. Monitoring of spring waters, along with other monitoring techniques in a multidisciplinary network, and for a sufficiently long time, could potentially enable obtaining reliable proxy indicators of pre-earthquake crustal deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The active tectonics of Anatolia is mostly characterized by its westward motion with respect to Eurasia between the Hellenic subduction in the west and Arabia-Eurasia continental collision in the east. Although most of the deformation is suggested to be confined along Anatolia's boundary elements, viz. the North and East Anatolian shear zones, recent studies indicate a higher magnitude of internal strain accumulation, especially along the parallel/subparallel strike-slip faults of its central province. We present the first morphochronology-based slip rate estimate for one of these strike-slip structures, the Ovacık Fault, by using cosmogenic 36Cl dating of offset fluvial deposits. At the Köseler Site (39.3643°N, 39.1688°E), two faulted risers, bounding the alluvial fan with its subplanar surface (NF1/NF1') and the inset terrace tread (NF1/T2), are offset 19-24 and 15-22 m, respectively. The scattered surface ages and variability of 36Cl concentrations in depth profiles suggest strong evidence for inheritance in alluvial fan and terrace deposits; thus, we used modelled depth-profile ages for both surfaces. The modelled ages 8-10 ka for NF1 and 6-8 ka for T2 yield slip-rate estimates 2.4 +0.5/-0.4 mm/a and 2.8 +0.7/-0.7 mm/a, respectively, for the upper-tread reconstruction of the NF1/NF1'and the lower-tread reconstruction of the NF1/T2. Our results together with previous slip-rate estimates for other structures show a significant internal deformation for Anatolia, especially along its subparallel strike-slip faults. These secondary faults slice Anatolia into several pieces giving rise to the formation of the Malatya-Erzincan, Cappadocian, and Central Anatolian slices, where the geometry is strongly controlled by the distribution of the Tethyan accretionary complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of biostratigraphy, strontium isotope stratigraphy, and magnetostratigraphy allowed for the precise dating of the >3.0kmthick marine to nonmarine foreland sedimentary succession within the Dowlatabad growth syncline along the Frontal Fars arc in the Zagros Fold Belt that extends from eastern Turkey to southern Iran. This area was the missing link to complete the dating of syntectonic deposits in the Fars arc and quantify the migration of sedimentary belts as well as the propagation of folding across the entire Mesopotamian foreland basin. Both are essential for defining the interplay of basin evolution and sequence of folding. Deposition of the foreland marine marls in the Mishan Formation started at ca. 11.5 Ma. The transition to a nonmarine basin infill occurred at 4.9 Ma by the progradation of thick fluvial deposits of the Aghajari Formation with a fast accumulation rate of 63 cm/k.y. The beginning of growth strata deposition and thus the onset of folding in the Dowlatabad syncline is dated at 4.65 Ma. The first appearance of carbonate conglomerates sourced from the Guri limestone at 2.8 Ma marked the progressive dismantling of the nearby growing anticlines. The tectonic deformation in the front of the Fars arc was active for at least 2.85 m.y. and ceased at 1.8 Ma before the deposition of the discordant and slightly folded Bakhtyari conglomerates characterized by a clast composition derived from the Zagros hinterland. The compilation of magnetostratigraphic ages reveals that both the migration of the AghajariBakhtyari sedimentary belts and the propagation of the folding front was insequence toward the foreland at a rate close to 20 mm/yr in the Fars arc and 15 mm/ yr in the Lurestan arc, in the last 20 m.y. These high rates of folding propagation are about one order of magnitude larger than age equivalent shortening rates (~4 mm/yr in Fars arc and ~2 mm/yr in Lurestan arc) and thus imply an efficient detachment level at the base of the deformed Arabian sedimentary cover. Numerical experiments on both the cover and basement sequences are designed to test the influence of inherited basement structures on the deformation propagation within the cover sequence, providing clues on the partly coeval insequence deformation of the Zagros Simply Folded Belt and the local outofsequence Mountain Frontal Fault system as illustrated by regional and local geology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a detailed description of the sedimentological characteristics of the Early Miocene platform deposits to contribute towards the understanding of the evolution of the Neogene Adana Basin (southern Anatolia). Several detailed sedimentological logs were measured and interpreted from the platform deposits (Kaplankaya, Karaisalı, and turbiditic Cingöz formations) of the Adana Basin. The depositional evolution of the Adana Basin began during the Early Miocene as a foreland basin. The basin fill is both marine and nonmarine in character, which shows a gradual transition at the northern margin of the basin from one into another. Formation of the basin commenced by a major marine transgression during the Early Miocene. The pre-Miocene sedimentation area was a large platform with an adjacent depression area, which greatly affected the development of Miocene sedimentation after the Aquitanian-Burdigalian transgression. Prior to this transgression, the paleotopography was filled by terrestrial Gildirli deposits, and after transgression, shallow platform sediments of Kaplankaya-Karaisalı formations, and Cingöz and Güvenç formations were deposited in the slightly deeper parts of the basin. The Early Miocene Kaplankaya and Karaisalı formations conformably overlie the Gildirli Formation. However, both formations are seen resting with angular unconformity on the tilted Oligocene age Karsantı Basin sediments. Early Miocene sediments were developed due to the transgression towards the north. In the areas close to the shore, the northerly sourced littoral-brackish and deltaic Kaplankaya Formation and the more marine reefal Karaisalı Formation were deposited. Stratigraphical, sedimentological, and paleontological evidence has proven that the platform sediments of the basin were deposited during the Aquitanian-Burdigalian. While the Karaisalı Formation is represented by reef sediments, the base of Kaplankaya is characterized by alluvial fan and distributary mouth bar deposits with intermittent fluvial and marine conditions. These pass upward into prodelta clayey facies that consist of shallow marine fossils. The Burdigalian-Serravalian turbiditic Cingöz Formation cuts the Kaplankaya Formation with a channelized erosive contact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the site characterization of the Senirkent Basin (Isparta) by using the microtremor (H/V) and surface wave analysis (ReMi) methods. Senirkent district, which is located on the foothill of the Kapi Mountain, are prone to seismic and landslide hazards. After the last landslip disaster (1995), the city has continued to develop on the alluvial basin. The microtremor data collected at 41 stations were analyzed. The predominant frequency and the amplification of the soil were found to be in the range of 1.8–6.6 Hz and 0.8–6.8, respectively. These are 4.0–6.8 Hz and 1–2.5 around the slope of the Kapi Mountain and 0.8–3.6 Hz and 3.0–6.6 at alluvium deposits of the valley. The ReMi data collected along 41 profiles were analyzed to obtain a Vs30 map. The soil classifications were done by using Vs30 values according to NEHRP soil classification criteria. The results showed that the southern area of the study had better soil conditions with Vs30 between 360–1160 m/s and soil class between C and B. The alluvium deposits on the north are relatively low with Vs30 in the range of 260–360 m/s and soil class D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to reveal upper-crustal velocity structure of Inner part of Izmir Gulf by using ambient noise tomography. One-year noise data have been used from 17 stations belong to IzmirNET. Rayleigh wave group velocities which present good signal/noise ratio have been obtained from dispersion curves by using multiple filter technique. Results have been mapped for 2, 4 and 6 s period intervals. Then, shear wave velocities have been obtained from the inversion of group velocity by using local dispersion curves belongs to same periods. Low velocity areas representing alluvial deposits beneath Inner part of Izmir Gulf, have been precisely observed down to 3 km on group and shear wave maps. Added to this, it is also detected not only the existence of low velocities but also high values in the depth slices of inner part of the Gulf. This method may provide precise and high resolution images of crustal structure and upper mantle by using ambient noise tomography without seismic events. It can be applied in the future to the Aegean Region, Turkey or neighbouring countries by using broad-band data set. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burdur Fault (BF) is located in Fethiye Burdur Fault Zone and it has formed in three main sections as Gölbaşı–Gökçebağ, Burdur and Yassıgüme–Çendik. The Neogene Basin is a NE–SW oriented depression basin which forms Plio-Quaternary aged lacustrine and alluvial deposits. Paleo-seismic structures on lacustrine sediments were studied with three excavation surfaces at the BF segments in Burdur settlement area. The relationships between different paleo-seismic structures were explained in detail. Although we have obtained new data for the timing of past earthquakes, it is to determine the shear rate of BF segments. Lacustrine sediments and alluvium sequences showing clear evidence of the shearing movement effects were observed. Studies on slopes of foundation excavations on BF segments and near the segment were investigated. Stratified lacustrine sediments observed, each of consisting thin clay layers which is weakly developed in the marl unit excavation surfaces near the Gökçebağ segment. Thin layered lacustrine sediments developed that intersect with a parallel–parallel fractures that filled with collapsed sediments expose near the Burdur segment. In both excavation surfaces, the lower sedimentary unit is covered with a fine sand. The claystone and marl intercalations are discontinuous in the lateral direction and consist of alluvial and lacustrine deposits observed in excavation surfaces near the Yassıgüme–Çendik segment. This study emphasizes that the importance of geological structure has a significant impact on the formation of fault segments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the strategies Corpilica and Caenica. The text analyses mainly the march of Gnaeus Manlius Vulso from Asia Minor to Rome, and more specifically the distance from the Thracian Chersonesos (Lysimachia) to the Corpilian Pass. The author disputes the opinion of some scholars that the Corpilian Pass was located to the east of the present-day Maritsa River. Second, the opinion is defended that the description of the campaign was correct: from east to west, with Titus Livius returning at a certain point again to the description of the battle near the mountain pass located to the northwest of the Melas River, thus also localising the temple of Bendis - at the exit from that mountain. Third, the view is defended that the crossing of the Hebrus River took place between the present-day Ferre and the region of the present-day village of Yenikarpuslu, hence Vulso crossed the territory of Aenus that stretched to the north. Fourth, the text supports the brief observation of M. Tiverios of alluvial deposits at the estuary of the Maritsa River, which pushed the sea back and the coastline receded in the distance. Fifth, the theory is defended that Vulso's itinerary passed through the Corpilian Pass located to the north of the present-day Alexandroupolis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Telbesmi Formation, at the northern margin of the Arabian Plate, Turkey, is composed of alternating darkbrown, pinky-brown fluvial arkosic sandstone/mudstones with thin-bedded cherty limestones and channel conglomerates. The formation contains rare and poorly diversified trace fossils. The siltstone/sandstone beds of levels 1 and 2 of the formation yielded, however, a moderately diverse assemblage composed of: Cochlichnus isp., Palaeophycus isp., Planolites beverleyensis, Teichichnus isp. and Treptichnus rectangularis. This assemblage, made up of traces left by deposit feeding organisms, represents the Scoyenia ichnofacies. Treptichnus rectangularis and Palaeophycus isp., of the assemblage, can be considered markers for the base of the Cambrian in southeast Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Quaternary Sarıkavak fluvial tufa deposits, situated in south-western Turkey, different facies have been identified and their mutual relationships have been unravelled. This tufa formation is located at the northern part of Acıgöl Graben. The development of the Sarıkavak tufas represents typical fluvial and fluvio-palustrine environments. In total eight tufa lithofacies have been differentiated, namely: moss tufa facies, oncolitic tufa facies, stromatolitic tufa facies, phytoclastic tufa facies, intraclastic tufa facies, extra-formational clastic tufa facies, sapropelitic tufa facies, and palaeosol. Preliminary U/Th datings indicate that these deposits formed prior to 219 ka and continued until 80 ka (MIS 7 till 5). δ 13 C signatures (0.78‰ to −1.63‰ V-PDB) best can be explained by limestone dissolution processes or respiration from C4 plant vegetation into the soil or both. For that reason, the Sarıkavak tufa deposits can be classified as ‘travitufa’ which precipitated in a distal facies system of travertine occurrences. δ 18 O values (−7.49‰ to −10.83‰ V-PDB) of the whole data set reflect some significant changes, which is interpreted in terms of temperature variations reflecting warm and cold periods among MIS 7 (interglacial), MIS 6 (glacial) and MIS 5 (interglacial). The development of the Sarıkavak tufa deposits are related to the Maymundağı fault that borders the Acıgöl Graben in the north. This fault and its synthetic fault segments play a pivotal role with regard to the palaeo-flow direction of water and control the basin topography. These structural structures are likely responsible for all active and ancient springs in the study area, as well as their respective carbonate precipitates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Koprubasi uranium deposit is the largest known uranium deposits in Turkey. Uranium mineralization is hosted in Neogene fluvial sediments that consist of predominantly sandstone and conglomerate interlayered with siltstone, claystone and mudstone. Sediments were primarily derived from metamorphic rocks adjacent to the basins of deposition, with some volcanic contribution in the form of tuffs. The sandstones and conglomerates are the most widespread sediments within the study area and host the majority of the U ore. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis were used to identify the ore and associated minerals. The uranium ore minerals of the host sedimentary rocks are torbernite, meta-torbernite and meta-autunite. These coexist with jarosite, various clays (chlorite/kaolinite, illite, and smectite), and Fe- and Mn-(hydr) oxides with minor titanium oxide. Additionally, quartz, feldspars and a minor amount of mica (muscovite and biotite) are the main primary minerals in the sedimentary rocks. The uranyl phosphates coat the surfaces of pebbles and some mineral grains, fill cracks, and are disseminated within the pores of the host sedimentary rocks. Uranyl phosphates are commonly associated with Fe-(hydr) oxides and clays, although some were observed in millimeter- or centimeter wide gaps within Koprubasi sediments. Oxides of manganese are also locally abundant and associated with uranyl phosphates. The uranyl phosphates in the sediments of the Koprubasi area most likely formed when oxidizing groundwater moved through the host rock. The common association of uranyl phosphates with Fe-(hydr) oxides and clays suggests that the precipitation of uranyl phosphate minerals is mainly due to adsorption of the uranyl and phosphate to the surface of Fe-(hydr) oxides and clays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The city of Izmir, located at the western end of Turkey, has experienced many strong earthquakes throughout its history. The southern coast of Izmir Bay, one of the most densely populated areas of Izmir, is located on deep alluvial sediments. It is important to determine the effect of local soil conditions on dynamic ground response in the study area, where thick loose water-saturated alluvial sediments exist. A database including geotechnical and geological information on the study area is constructed. Majority of the site is classified as D and E according to NEHRP provisions. Dynamic site response analyses are performed with EERA by utilizing the field and laboratory test results and earthquake time histories of moderate-scale earthquakes such as 1977 Izmir ( M L = 5.3), 2003 Urla ( M d = 5.6), and 2005 Uzunkuyu-Urla ( M L = 5.9), which occurred in and nearby Izmir. In addition, a scenario ground motion generated by the Izmir Fault with a magnitude of 6.5, having an average distance of 10 km to the study area, is also considered. The output data obtained from the dynamic site response analyses are evaluated, and maps displaying variation in dynamic parameters on ground surface are prepared for the southern coast of Izmir Bay, Turkey. Consequently, the dynamic analyses performed with the soil models constituted for the study area verified the damage occurred in a close distance event of 1977 Izmir earthquake. The scenario earthquake resulted in peak ground accelerations more than 0.6 g at the eastern and western ends of the study area. However, long distance events resulted in spectral amplifications by up to 5 times. With this study, it is emphasized that local soil conditions should be evaluated individually in the area of interest. Generation of a site-specific design spectrum is recommended for the areas located on deep alluvial sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correlation of standard penetration test (SPT) and cone penetration test (CPT) data was carried out by this study. The SPT provides information on the resistance and properties of soils and weathered rocks. In addition to the SPT, the CPT is widely used for site investigation and geotechnical design especially in alluvial areas, based on soil types. In order to determine the CPT values of the investigation areas, where only reliable SPT values are available, the SPT blow counts (N values) can be converted into CPT cone resistances (q values) by an SPT-CPT correlation. The correlation of SPT-CPT test results from the subsidence area was performed using statistical methods. The soils in this area are recent alluvial deposits, consisting mainly of silty clay, clayey silt, clay and sandy clay. The qc values are not increased when SPT values are increased as it is expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late Holocene landscape evolution in the Geyikli basin, a sub-catchment of the Bakırçay basin on the West Anatolian Coast, and its implications for the plaeogeography of the environs of ancient Pergamon (modern Bergama), were studied by a combination of archaeological and geographical investigations. The study aims to investigate whether the “Dörpfeld Scenario” of the paleogeographical situation in the Lower Bakırçay Valley is true or not. The scenario postulates that during the Late Holocene, an alluvial fan, fed from the Geyikli valley, progressively closed a topographical constriction between the Aegean Sea and a supposed paleo-gulf that occupied the Lower Bakırçay Valley. Initially, this caused the development of an inland lake, and finally the shift of the mouth of the Paleo-Bakırçay from a northern position to its modern southern position. The lithostratigraphy of four sediment outcrops in the Lower Geyikli Basin and in the topographical constriction between the Aegean Coastal Plain and the Bakırçay Valley shows that during the past ca. 1950 years, the Lower Geyikli Valley was inhabited by a braided river with a highly dynamic depositional system. Sedimentation totalled about 4–6 m in the past 1950 years, indicating a “drowning” of the landscape in terrestrial sediments. In recent times, gravel mining has led to a deformation of the valley floor, and the Geyikli's fluvial terrace has become inactive. The lack of any sediment related to a Paleo-Gulf or a Paleo-Lake inside the Bakırçay Basin, as well as the lack of any sediments of a northern Paleo-Bakırçay, documents that the “Dörpfeld Scenario” does not apply for the past 1950 years. Archaeological findings show that the Geyikli Basin was intensively settled in historic times, but there is no evidence that the Geyikli Basin was anthropogenically deformed in a way that could have contributed to the “Dörpfeld Scenario”. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Burdur Basin is one of the NE-trending extensional orogen-top basins of SW Anatolia hosting alluvial-fan, fluvial and lacustrine deposits from the Late Miocene onward. The remains of Equus (Allohippus) sp., Paracamelus cf. gigas, and medium-sized deer (Cervidae gen. indet.) from the uppermost reach of the basin-fill succession show an interregional palaeobiogeographical linkage. The composition of fossil associations is typical for the Villafranchian of eastern Europe and central Asia. The architecture of the basin-fill stratigraphy and associated fossil taxa refines the Early Pleistocene regional palaeogeography and biodiversity of Anatolia drawn over the Eurasian migration pattern. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Liquefaction of the soils is a major problem during and after earthquakes, and can lead to severe damage. A wide range of experience in dealing with natural hazards was gained in the capital city of Ankara after several earthquakes occured in Kaman (1938), Gerede (1944), and Duzce (1999), and in later events. The recent findings after the Orta (2000) and Bala (2005, 2007) earthquakes proved that Ankara should not be designated as a nonseismic hazard zone, as it has been previously. The Quaternary age alluvium is located in the nearby suburbs of Etimesgut, Macunkoy, Cuglu, Avdan, and Kazan. A high density of population and structures is spread over this alluvium, which contains a high percentage of cohesive soils associated with sand and gravel lenses. The depths of the groundwater level ranges between 6.0 and 8.0 m in west Etimesgut, 3.0 m in Macunkoy, 5.0 to 7.0-8.0 m in Cuglu/Avdan, and 4.5-7.0 m in southern Kazan. The average S wave velocities of the alluvium derived from the ReMi were 140 m/s in Etimesgut, 200 m/s in Macunkoy, 134 m/s in Cuglu/Avdan, and 200 m/s in Kazan, respectively. Liquefaction evaluation is conducted by standard penetration blow count, shear wave velocity, and threshold acceleration. Varying horizontal accelerations of the input motions in the soil stratigraphy were generated via the Quad4m program. Geotechnical investigation and proper soil improvement should be carried out in order to prevent structural damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demre Creek is one of the most important rivers of Southwest Anatolia with its basin width of about 1000 km2 and its delta of 22 km2. Beymelek Lagoon on the south of Demre delta was formed by accumulation of Demre Creek alluvial deposit before Beymelek Bay through coastal dynamics under the effect of prevailing south wind. The lake fed by karstic sources is independent of Demre Creek basin except for southwest delta and sandbars. In this research, it was determined that Demre Creek was formed during Neogene Period and that it first flowed into Beymelek Bay and later into the Mediterranean Sea from the southwest of the bay. Also, Demre Creek used these valleys throughout Pliocene-Lower Pleistocene Periods, but left these places due to tectonic activities and climatic fluctuations of the area and started to flow from its current valley during Middle Pleistocene. In this research, which aimed to determine the relation between the valley changes of Demre Creek during Paleogeography Periods and Beymelek Bay, geologic and geomorphologic characteristics of Demre Creek basin were analyzed in details and especially the evolution of the basin from its formation to Prior Holocene was dealt with. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract: The Şelmo Formation was deposited in the basins associated with the Southeastern Anatolian Thrust Belt and East Anatolian Fault Zone in SE Turkey. These structures developed as a result of compressional stresses created by the movement of the Arabian plate to the north and the Eurasian plate to the west from early Miocene to late Pliocene. The outcrops of the Şelmo Formation in the Adýyaman area (SE Turkey) comprise braided river deposits (lower alluvial unit) at the base, lacustrine and deltaic deposits in the middle (lacustrine unit) and low sinuousity river and alluvial deposits at the top (upper alluvial unit). Soft-sediment deformation structures were developed in sandstone, siltstone and marl of the deltaic and lacustrine unit of the Şelmo Formation. These are slumps, recumbent folds, load casts, ball-and-pillow structures, flame structures, neptunian dykes, chaotically associated structures and synsedimentary faults. The tectonic setting of the basin, the lateral extent of the soft-sediment deformation structures over tens of kilometers, their similarities to deformation structures interpreted as being induced seismically in other regions worldwide or in a laboratory setting, and being confined by undeformed layers suggest that the main trigger system was related to seismic activity in the area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was carried out on the Cappadocia section of the Kızılırmak river valley, the longest river completely within the borders of Turkey (1355km). A staircase of fifteen terraces found in the valley is maintained against erosion at elevations up to 160m above the current river level. The Gülşehir–Karaburna Quatenary Basalts (four basalt flows), which cap four terraces, were numerically dated for the first time using the Ar–Ar technique. The Evren Ridge Basalt (β1), +160m above the river level and capping Terrace 1, was dated to 1989.4±38.9ka. The Karaburna Basalt Plateau (β2) is +128m above the river level and caps Terrace 4, and was dated to 1228.2±46.4ka. The Tuzköy Basalt Plateau (β3), +29m above the river level and capping Terrace 12, was dated to 403.8±9.8ka, and the Karnıyarık Hill Basalts (β4) at +4.5m above the river level and capping Terrace 15 were dated to 96.0±13.0ka. These basalt ages provide minimum ages for the underlying fluvial deposits. On the one hand, these data show that Kızılırmak River incised its valley by 160m during the last ~2Ma of its evolution. On the other hand, by using terrace sequences and basalt ages, the time-averaged incision rate of the river during the last 2Ma was determined as approximately 0.08mm/a−1, but important variations within that time span are also apparent. The highest incision rate during this period was determined to be 0.12mm/a−1 between the late Early and mid Middle Pleistocene. From the numerical chronology, terrace stratigraphy and paleosol records, it is suggested that the main incision phases of the Kızılırmak River led to terrace formation during the cold periods and the deposition phases occurred during the warm periods (including cold–warm transitions). As a result of assigning terraces to marine oxygen isotope stages, it was inferred that nearly all terrace levels had formed during the eccentricity-driven climate cycles, in association with high uplift rates, which were interpreted as being complete in the valley. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of Afyon Kocatepe University Journal of Science is the property of Afyon Kocatepe University, Faculty of Science & Literature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: Fluvial response to climate change during and after the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) included incision–aggradation phases, recorded in sediment cores from the valley floor of the Kızılırmak in Central Anatolia. A numerical chronology was established by AMS dating of fluvial sediments and Ar–Ar dating of a basalt sample capping the youngest terrace (Late Pleistocene terrace), indicating that the main incision phase was completed at the end of the LGM. The succeeding aggradation phase in the valley took place from the end of the LGM onwards. It appears that the major climatic transition from the LGM to the Late Glacial gave rise to aggradation in the fluvial system, and this event seems to be consistent with the timing of the regression phase of pluvial lakes and the termination of paleoglacier advances in the high mountains of Anatolia. This study of fluvial systems in Anatolia indicates that the coldest periods are not always characterized by fluvial aggradation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Groundwater is mostly the unique water source insemiarid regions of Turkey. The aim of this study is to define aquifer characteristics by using hydrogeochemical and hydrogeological data obtained fromthe Günyüzü Basin located in the Sakarya River catchment area at the SW of Eskişehir-Sivrihisar. The study area covers an area of 543 km² with an annual average precipitation of 393 mm/year.The study area comprises Mesozoic metamorphicrocks, Eocene granite, Neogene sedimentary rocks and recent alluvium where different hydrogeological properties such as unconfined-confined-partly karstic, fractured and granular aquifers having thermal component can be observed. The metamorphic basement begins with radiolarite, serpantinite, splitic basalt and diabases which are overlain by micaschist, quartzite, calcschist and marble. The thickness of brown, beige, light gray marble is more than 100 meters and seen at the top of metamorphic series. The metamorphic series arecut by magmatic rocks, where the main marble aquifer is bordered by these impermeable intrusions at sides and by impermeable schists at the bottom within the studied area The geological units in the study area are hydrogeologically classified as local rich, medium, poor aquifers and aquicludes. Paleozoic marbles have been jointed and faulted and evaluated as local permeable units. They contain and conduct significant amount of groundwater. According to data obtained from pumping tests at wells drilled in themarbles, the hydraulic conductivity ranges between 1.19 and 98.9 m/day and specific capacity is between 0.64 and 75 l/sec/m. Although these figures do not represent the whole aquifer, they provide an idea of the heterogeneity of the system. Most of the spring discharge from this aquifer. Marbles also play an important role on recharge of the basin, because the thickness of marbles is more than 100 meters and seen at the top of metamorphic series at higher altitudes of basin. Short and heavy rainfalls and snowmelts directly affect the recharge in this karstic area where response of these events has been observed in the spring discharges. Quaternary alluvium and Neogene conglomerates and limestones are secondary important aquifers. According to data obtained from the pumping experiments carried out at the wells drilled in the basin, the hydraulic conductivity of the Neogene limestones varies between 1.39 and 4.1 m/day and specific capacity varies between 1.8 and 2.9 l/sec/m. The hydraulic conductivity of the Neogene conglomerates varies between 0.27 and 0.39 m/day and specific capacity is between 0.38 and 0.55/sec/m. The ophiolite, schists of the metamorphic complex, Eocene granites, Neogene marl, clays and diabases are the other impermeable levels in basin. Samples obtained from springs and wells within the research area from 9 locations, choosen in order to represent aquifer characteristics, have been examined. The groundwaters have pH values ranging from 6.59 to 7.56, and temperatures changes 14 - 35°C. … [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Unspiked K–Ar dating makes the age of the Çakmaközü basalt in eastern Turkey 1818±39 ka (±2σ). This basalt overlies a staircase of four terraces of the River Murat, a Euphrates tributary, each separated vertically by ∼20 m. We deduce from the relationship with the basalt that these fluvial deposits aggraded during successive ∼40 ka climate cycles around the Pliocene–Pleistocene boundary (probably MIS 72-66). The incision and rock uplift at ∼0.5 mm a−1, thus indicated, are roughly consistent with the ∼500 m of entrenchment of this ∼1.8 Ma Murat palaeo-valley into a former lake basin since the Mid-Pliocene climatic optimum. We infer that the ∼130 m of incision in this locality since ∼1.8 Ma dramatically underestimates the associated rock uplift, estimated as ∼600 m. The ∼1100 m of rock uplift and ∼800 m of surface uplift thus estimated since the Mid-Pliocene indicate (assuming Airy isostatic equilibrium) ∼5 km of thickening of the continental crust, from ∼37 km to the present 42 km. Eastern Anatolia was thus at a much lower altitude in the Mid-Pliocene than at present, consistent with the low-relief lacustrine palaeo-environment. We infer that the subsequent development of topography and excess crustal thickness are being caused by coupling between surface processes and induced flow in the lower crust: climate change following the Mid-Pliocene climatic optimum resulted in faster erosion that has drawn mobile lower crust beneath the study region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Ecemiş River developed during the Pleistocene and Holocene in the Ecemiş basin. The basin developed because of tectonic movement on the Ecemiş Fault, which is west of the Aladağ Mountains. In the Pleistocene, glacial–interglacial climate changes directly affected the regimes and discharges of rivers, causing changes in river levels along the Ecemiş channel. Fluvial formations became extremely complicated when active tectonic movements accompanied the changes resulting from the climatic conditions. The rivers embedded in their beds according to new local base levels in interglacials. Terraces formed due to interruptions in the cycle of morphological development along the Ecemiş River. From the morphologic structure of these terraces and their positions in the Ecemiş Valley two groups and five levels of terraces were defined. In the Ecemiş Valley, modern terraces (1–5m) formed in the Holocene, while low terrace systems (5–10m and 15–20m) and high terrace systems (30–40 and 70–80m) formed in the Pleistocene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Gediz Graben is a continental extensional basin filled with Miocene to Recent sediments. The evolution of the graben can be expressed in terms of two phases: (i) Miocene half graben phase; and (ii) post-Miocene graben phase. The Miocene half graben phase was governed by the southern margin structure evolution of which significantly controlled the stratigraphic variability in the basin. Alluvial, fluvial and lacustrine systems developed in the graben as a function of distance to the southern margin. Thus, alluvial deposits with coarse-grained facies dominate the southern margin and grade into finer fractions of fluvial and/or lacustrine deposits to the north. This depositional architecture repeated three times during the Miocene and deposited Alaşehir, Çaltılık and Gediz formations. These formations depict distinct thickness and grain size decrease from south to north to emphasize the half-graben configuration for the favour of the southern margin. The post-Miocene graben phase started with the faulting of the northern margin. This resulted in relatively balanced partitioning of the subsidence between the two margins although the preceding asymmetry was inherited by the graben. Sediment influx became bipolar and alluvial fan systems developed along the both margins. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Groundwater bearing alluvial units in the seismically active settlement areas may bring out probable damage on the urban and built environment due to liquefaction. Bolu settlement area and surroundings are located in the North Anatolian Fault Zone. Geotechnical boreholes were drilled in order to determine the distribution of the geological units, to obtain representative soil samples and to measure groundwater level. Quaternary aged alluvium is the main geological unit in the South of study area. Stiffness and consistency of the soils were determined by Standart penetration test. P and S wave velocities of soil have been measured along the seismic profiles. The index and physical properties of the samples have also been tested in the laboratory. Liquefaction potential and safety factor of the sandy levels in Quaternary aged alluvium were investigated by different methods based on SPT and V s. Liquefaction seems to be a significant risk in case of an earthquake with a max = 0.48 g and M w = 7.5 at different levels of the boreholes. This situation may bring out environmental problems in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aftershock sequences of the magnitude M W =6.4 Bingöl earthquake of 1 May, 2003 (Turkey) are studied to analyze the spatial and temporal variability of seismicity parameters of the b value of the frequency-magnitude distribution and the p value describing the temporal decay rate of aftershocks. The catalog taken from the KOERI contains 516 events and one month’s time interval. The b value is found as 1.49 ± 0.07 with Mc =3.2. Considering the error limits, b value is very close to the maximum b value stated in the literature. This larger value may be caused by the paucity of the larger aftershocks with magnitude M D ≥ 5.0. Also, the aftershock area is divided into four parts in order to detect the differences in b value and the changes illustrate the heterogeneity of the aftershock region. The p value is calculated as 0.86 ± 0.11, relatively small. This small p value may be a result of the slow decay rate of the aftershock activity and the small number of aftershocks. For the fitting of a suitable model and estimation of correct values of decay parameters, the sequence is also modeled as a background seismicty rate model. Constant background activity does not appear to be important during the first month of the Bingöl aftershock sequences and this result is coherent with an average estimation of pre-existing seismicity. The results show that usage of simple modified Omori law is reasonable for the analysis. The spatial variability in b value is between 1.2 and 1.8 and p value varies from 0.6 to 1.2. Although the physical interpretation of the spatial variability of these seismicity parameters is not straightforward, the variation of b and p values can be related to the stress and slip distribution after the mainshock, respectively. The lower b values are observed in the high stress regions and to a certain extent, the largest b values are related to Holocene alluvium. The larger p values are found in some part of the aftershock area although no slip occurred after the main shock and it is interpreted that this situation may be caused by the alluvium structure of the region. These results indicate that the spatial distribution in b and p values are generally related to the rupture mechanism and material properties of an aftershock area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  The phytoplankton composition of coastal, hyposaline (≅12 g l−1) Lake Bafa in western Turkey, was investigated after the alteration of salinity levels in past decades. Lake Bafa, formerly a bay of the Aegean Sea, was separated from the sea as a result of alluvium deposits of the Meander River. After the construction of a sett for flood control in 1985, freshwater inflow was reduced and salinity increased, which caused some ecological changes. Phytoplankton samples were taken in August and November 2000, and February and May 2001, from the surface and at 5-m intervals in the water column at three stations. The phytoplankton community contained a mixture of freshwater and marine origin species. A total of 45 species from Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae, Chrysophyceae, and Dinophyceae were identified. Marineoriginated species such as Chaetoceros spp. (November and May), Thalassionema nitzschioides and Prorocentrum micans (August and November), and P. minimum (May) were dominant on the basis of numerical abundance. The occurrence of salinity-tolerant species such as T. nitzschioides, P. micans, and P. minimum has not been recorded in previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out in order to investigate existing hydrogeochemical relationships between groundwater environment and geological units in the Kazan trona deposit area, Ankara, Turkey. Evaluations indicate that concentrations of alkalinity, boron, chloride and sodium in the upgradient groundwater of the Eocene sedimentary units gradually increase toward downgradient by the interactions of saline minerals (searlesite, shortite, northupite and pyrite) present in the secondary structures (microfractures and irregular voids) at various levels. Inverse modeling calculations suggest that the range of dissolved mass amounts in millimoles per kilogram of water for searlesite, shortite and northupite minerals are 0.05–28.67, 2.62–24.39 and 0.01–24.19, respectively, in the aquifer between the upgradient and downgradient locations. The ranges of accompanying calcite and dolomite precipitations are 4.54–48.71 and 2.16–24.08 mmol per kg of water, respectively. Chemical composition of the groundwater in the overlying Neogene sedimentary unit includes also higher concentrations of the major ions as measured in groundwater of the underlying units. However the lack of saline mineral zones in the Neogene unit indicates that upward groundwater mixing takes place from the underlying aquifer as also suggested by the measured upward gradient. The mixing percentage of the underlying groundwater as determined from the nested wells ranges from 2.7 to 48.3%, from upgradient to downgradient, respectively. The unconfined alluvium aquifer overlying the Neogene unit includes relatively dilute groundwater except in two locations, where high-ion concentrations detected in groundwater of the underlying units are also high in these locations, suggesting upward groundwater mixing from the underlying aquifer due to upward gradient. However, groundwater input investigations from the alluvium aquifer to the nearby Ova stream indicate that the detected high concentrations in these locations are diluted or sorbed by the aquifer material toward downgradient (Ova Stream). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to investigate the quality and usage possibility of groundwater in the Çavuşçayı basin and suggest the best water structure for the groundwater use. Results from hydrochemical analyses reveal that groundwater is mostly affected by salty (Na+–Cl−) waters of the Incik Formation and brackish (Ca2+, Mg2+–SO) waters of the Bayındır Formation. The Alibaba saltpan discharged (2 l/s) from the Incik Formation is used for salt production. In the basin, salinity risk increases with depth and along the groundwater flow direction. Therefore, shallow water and trenches opened in the alluvium aquifer at the east of the basin were determined to yield suitable water with no Na+ and Cl− contamination. Following the heavy rainy period, waters of less salinity and conductivity are possibly used for agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study investigates the origin and regional tectonic implications of high-altitude Plio (?)–Quaternary fluvial deposits developed over the Bozdağ horst which is an important structural element within the horst–graben system of western Anatolia, Turkey. A total of 23 deposits occur near the modern drainage divide comprising fluvial to occasionally lacustrine deposits. The deposits are all elongated in N–S direction with a width/length ratio of 1/10. The largest of them is of 13 km in length with a maximum observable thickness of about 100–110 m. Morphological, lithological, deformational characteristics of these deposits and the drainage system of the area all suggest that the deposits were formed due to uplift and southward tilting of the Bozdağ horst. This tilting which is estimated as 1.2° to 2.2° caused accumulation of the stream load along channels flowing from south to north. All the deposits were later dissected by the same streams with the exception of one deposit which still preserves its original lake form. These deposits are of Quaternary age, which corresponds to the latest N–S directed extensional tectonic phase in the region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Karstification-based land subsidence was found in the Upper Tigris Basin with dimensions not seen anywhere else in Turkey. The area of land subsidence, where there are secondary and tertiary subsidence developments, reaches 140 km2. Subsidence depth ranges between 40 and 70 m. The subsidence was formed as a result of subsurface gypsum dissolution in Lower Miocene formation. Although there are limestones together with gypsum and Eocene limestone below them in the area, a subsidence with such a large area is indicative of karstification in the gypsum. The stratigraphical cross-sections taken from the wells and the water analyses also verify this fact. The Lower Miocene gypsum, which shows confined aquifer features, was completely dissolved by the aggressive waters injected from the top and discharged through by Zellek Fault. This resulted in the development of subsidence and formation of caprock dolines on loosely textured Upper Miocene–Pliocene cover formations. The Tigris River runs through the subsidence area between Batman and Bismil. There are four terrace levels as T1 (40 m), T2 (30 m), T3 (10 m) and T4 (4–5 m) in the Tigris River valley. It was also found that there were some movements of the levels of the terraces in the valley by subsidence. The subsidence developed gradually throughout the Quaternary; however no terrace was formed purely because of subsidence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article focuses on a reconstruction of the environmental evolution of the archaeological sites of Xanthos and Letoon in Turkey. During the Hellenistic period, Xanthos was an ancient Lycian city situated on a rocky promontory on the left side of the Xanthe River. It notes Letton's continued struggle against gradual sinking under the alluvial deposits. It also notes the important role of the end plain in the development of the sites and its current appearance from an environmental context.

We focus on the Neogene–Quaternary tectonic evolution of the Lake Van Basin located within the Turkish-Iranian Plateau. To better understand the complex tectonic history of the region and determine the paleostress patterns, we investigate and report on the geometric, structural, and kinematic characteristics of the Basin based on field observations of fault-slip orientations which are classified according to radiometric ages of the basin stratigraphy. The analysis of large-scale structures and fault kinematics indicate that three different deformation phases prevailed in the Lake Van Basin during the Neogene-Quaternary periods. Phase 1 is characterized by NW-SE extension and NE-SW contraction that gave rise to the development of strike-slip faults with thrust or normal components during the late Miocene, deforming the fluvial sediments which expose at east/northeast of the Basin. Phase 2 is characterized in fluvial and lake deposits of the Middle Pleistocene, deformed by dominant contraction stress regime effective along NW-SE direction. The late Pleistocene tectonic regime (Phase 3) consists of transpressional deformation that develops under NNW-SSE compression and ENE-WSW extension. According to our analysis, the present-day deformation pattern of the Lake Van Basin is dominated by compression at east, while at the northern part is transtensional. • Active faults of the Lake Van Basin is detailed with kinematic analysis from fault slip data. • Three different deformation phases is identified from the late Miocene through the late Pleistocene. • Compressional and transtensional tectonic regime alternated to dominate evolution of the Lake Van Basin. • U/Th dating of the Pleistocene terraces revealed the oldest (384 ka; +60 m) and highest (~ 213 ka; +130 m) levels of the Lake Van. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karst aquifers have been an important research topic for hydrologists for years. Due to their high storage capacity, karst aquifers are an important source of water for the environment. On the other hand, it is safety-critical because of its role in floods. Mugla Karst Aquifer (SW, Turkey) is the only major water-bearing formation in the close environs of Mugla city. Flooding in the wet season occurs every year in the recharge plains. The aquifer discharges by the seaside springs in the Akyaka district which is the main touristic point of interest in the area. Non-porous irregular internal structures make the karsts more difficult to study. Therefore, many different methodologies have been developed over the years. In this study, unit hydrograph analysis, correlation and spectral analyses were applied on the rainfall and spring water-level time series data. Although advanced karst formations can be seen on the surface like the sinkholes, it has been revealed that the interior structure is not highly karstified. 100–130 days of regulation time was found. This shows that the Mugla Karst has quite inertial behavior. Yet, the storage of the aquifer system is quite high, and the late infiltration effect caused by alluvium plains was detected. This characterization of the hydrodynamic properties of the Mugla karst system represents an important step to consider the rational exploitation of its water resources in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mining activities are important for the country's economy, but they cause serious threats to the environment. The geology of SW Turkey comprises Southern (Çine) Submassif of Menderes Metamorphic Massif and the Lycian Nappes. These geological units are unconformably overlain by lignite-bearing Miocene deposits, Upper Miocene–Pliocene conglomerates and Quaternary alluvial deposits. The aim of this study is to determine the geospatial change of mining activities in the Muğla-Aydın provinces, SW Turkey. For this purpose, Landsat-5 TM, Landsat-7 ETM, Landsat-8 OLI and Google Earth satellite image data for 1984, 1994, 2004, 2014 and 2018 have been used for change detection analysis. In 1984, only a Miocene lignite quarry was excavated. Then, in 1994, operations for the excavation of feldspar–quartz and marble quarries were started, and from 2004 to 2014, mining activities significantly accelerated. An aerial image of 2018 shows that an area of about 3800 ha has been exploited by mining at 149 quarries. Considering access roads to quarries, plants and dam reservoirs, the human impact extends over 3800 ha. The study area is home to several archaeological sites and endemic biota. Thus, there is an urgent need for the relocation and protection of archaeological heritages and endemic biota by creating special zones. Additionally, the rich geomorphologic features in the study area that require millions of years to form are at risk of totally disappearing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study on geotechnical mapping for alluvial fan deposits controlled by active faults in the Erzurum, Turkey. It mentions that the study focuses on the geotechnical map and geotechnical evaluations of the alluvial fan deposits by means of the seismicity of the studied area. It states that the main topic providing the integrated information for urban development is engineering geology.

A correction to the article "Liquefaction Potential Evaluation of the Quaternary Alluvium, Western Ankara (Turkey)," that was published in the February 26, 2012 issue is presented.