Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to examine physical geography features of Arac using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Arac (40° 14 K, 33° 19 D) is a district of Kastamonu which is located on the Western part of the Black Sea Region. Arac is located 650 meters above the sea level and the total area is 1639 km2. Recent studies in Turkey on land cover show that natural environment has been destroyed by human geography factors. 72.6% of Arac that is designated as the study area is covered by forest and it has been observed that the natural environment of the area has undergone partial degradation. In this study which aims to define the physical geographical features of Arac with its noting natural environment, geology, geomorphology, climate, hydrography, soil and vegetation characteristics are analyzed. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) ArcMap 10.0 software, Spatial Analyst (Modules of ArcMap) and on screen digitizing methods were used for the implementation of data and methods. Obtained results from analysis were interpreted with the help of the field study

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