Abstract:

In this study, the geographical principles of forage crops agriculture in Erzurum Plain were examined. Forage crops agriculture is of great importance for Erzurum, which is one of the leading provinces of our country in terms of cattle presence. Due to this importance, the natural human and economic geography characteristics of forage crops agriculture in Erzurum Plain were examined as a whole, thus the potential of the plain for sustainable development was tried to be revealed. This study was prepared with mixed method. It is aimed to use qualitative and quantitative data together so that the study can be better understood and detailed. Expression was tried to be strengthened with statistical data, and visual expression was enriched with tables, graphics, photographs and maps. Relevant data were collected from TUIK, Erzurum Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry and General Directorate of Meteorology. After a wide literature review, the questionnaires used were examined and the necessary analyzes were made in the data analysis programs. Due to the fact that the lowest point of the Erzurum Plain is at an altitude of 1750 m and the severe continental climate prevails, climatic features such as precipitation and temperature have significantly limited agricultural activities. In addition, Erzurum Plain has advantages such as having a large area of 825 km2 and high soil fertility. These advantages are also important for sustainable livestock activities. On the other hand, there are also problems arising from the human environment, such as the shrinkage of agricultural lands through inheritance and the increase in the number of parcels, the inability to cultivate agricultural lands due to the migration of some landowners from the region, and increased input prices. Although Erzurum Plain has pros and cons for forage crops agriculture, efficiency and profitability can be increased in forage crop farming by using modern farming methods correctly. This efficiency and profitability in forage crop agriculture will also greatly support cattle breeding.