The boundaries of the Gökçeada Marine Park, which was created and where studies are conducted based on the proposal of our foundation, have been extended in line with the proposals of our foundation. The relevant article was published in the second section, article 5, subsection (o) of the circular numbered 2012/65, published by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock, regulating fishing in marine and inland waters, under the heading "Restrictions on fishing in the Aegean Sea", stating: "In the area between Yıldız Bay (40° 14.186´ N – 25° 54.230´ E) and Çiftlik Bay (40° 14.432´ N – 25° 56.112´ E), where the Gökçeada Marine Park is located, in Çanakkale Province, Gökçeada District, fishing is prohibited in the area extending 1 mile from the shore (Map-28)."
The boundaries of the Gökçeada Marine Park, previously defined in the Communiqué (2/1 and 2/2) as the area between Yıldız Bay and Yelken Kaya, have thus been extended by approximately half a mile to Çiftlik Bay. The area located between Yelken Kaya and Çiftlik Bay, which includes underwater cave entrances and serves as a habitat for many marine creatures, including the Mediterranean Monk Seal, has also been placed under protection by this decision.
Since its establishment, Gökçeada Marine Park has made significant contributions to the region as the only marine park in our country. Thanks to the work of TÜDAV (Turkish Foundation for Environmental Protection), the Marine Park was recognized as one of the best conservation practices in our country at the Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable Development, thus gaining a place in international literature. Hosting national and international research projects, the Marine Park has also hosted numerous activities organized by our foundation, including underwater photography competitions. Currently generating income for the island through underwater tourism, Gökçeada Marine Park also contributes to the island's fishing industry by serving as a reservoir for marine life. Our foundation will continue its work in this area.
