Influence of Lakeside Recreational Activities on the Quality of Lake Water: A Case Study of Yedigöller National Park

ABSTRACT This study examined the influence of leisure activities on the aquatic quality of lakes within Yedigöller National Park. Beginning in May 2022, a systematic collection of water samples was conducted on a monthly basis throughout a year‐long period, wherein a multitude of parameters, including water temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, pH, turbidity, suspended solids, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, chlorophyll‐a, and Secchi depth, were meticulously analyzed. The findings indicated that recreational activities had no statistically significant influence on the examined water quality parameters. Moreover, no significant variations in water quality parameters were identified between regions with high levels of recreational use and those with low levels of participation. This finding suggests that the current level of recreational activity does not negatively influence the aquatic quality of lakes in the Yedigöller Region. However, it has been observed that seasonal variations have a significant impact on specific water quality parameters. This finding emphasizes the importance of considering seasonal dynamics for the effective management and preservation of lake ecosystems.