Middle East Technical University (METU) utilizes sustainable water extraction technologies and ecological monitoring protocols across its on- and off-campus water extraction sites (Lake Eymir and Bursal/Gölbaşı aquifer wells). Through scientific programmes overseen by the METU Center for Ecosystem Research and Implementation (EKOSAM), METU monitors water extraction to ensure that it remains within ecologically sustainable limits, helping protect local aquifers and lake ecosystems from over-exploitation.

1. Sustainable Extraction Technologies & Infrastructure

• High-Pressure Leak-Free Transfer Pipelines: Extracted water from Bursal wells and Lake Eymir catchment is transferred under high pressure (40 bar) through dedicated non-urban pipelines, preventing groundwater contamination or physical leakage during conveyance to campus distribution tanks.
• Automated Telemetry & Safe-Yield Extraction: Extraction pools and wellhead pumps are monitored in real time using automated SCADA telemetry. Water abstraction rates are dynamically adjusted according to daily water table levels and lake volume capacity to prevent aquifer depletion.

2. Advanced Limnological Ecological Monitoring (22-Year Legacy)

To guarantee that water extraction does not compromise aquatic biodiversity or ecosystem functions, EKOSAM executes Turkey's longest-running continuous limnological monitoring program (22+ years) across Lake Eymir and Lake Mogan:

• Physico-Chemical & Optical Profiling: Multi-parameter probes (YSI 556S) log physical parameters every 0.5 meters. Underwater PAR light intensity is measured via Licor 250A light meters, alongside Secchi depth and maximum depth logging.
• Hydrochemical & Plankton Analysis: Integrated 40-liter composite samples (via Ruttner samplers) profile total phosphorus, dissolved phosphorus, silicates, nitrogen species (nitrite, nitrate, ammonium), chlorophyll-a, alkalinity, and suspended solids. 20-micron filtered 10-liter samples track littoral and pelagic zooplankton dynamics.
• Inflow/Outflow Discharge Hydrodynamics: Flow rates, water depth, and water quality are logged across all Eymir inflows (Gölbaşı, Kışlakçı) and outflows (Eymir Out), as well as Mogan tributaries (Sukesen, Yavrucuk, Çölovası).
• GIS & Biodiversity Profiling: Annual multi-mesh scientific gillnetting profiles fish composition, while GPS transect rake sampling maps submerged aquatic vegetation using GIS software to ensure sustainable ecological status.

https://ekosam.metu.edu.tr/tr/eymir-ve-mogan-golleri-uzun-donemli-ekolojik-izleme-programi