Farmers urged not to burn stubble: Soil fertility at risk

Professor Dr. Mustafa Tan, Vice Rector of Trakya University, stated that stubble fires come to the agenda every summer and emphasized the importance of raising public awareness on this issue. He noted that some producers burn stubble to control weeds, pests, and diseases or to make soil cultivation easier, but the perceived benefits are minimal compared to the resulting damage. Tan explained that during stubble burning, the temperature on the soil surface reaches approximately 750 degrees Celsius, and in the first few centimeters of soil, it reaches 250 degrees Celsius, leaving no chance of survival for beneficial microorganisms, earthworms, and other living organisms. He stressed that the destruction of the soil's living structure significantly reduces its fertility.

Tan pointed out that organic matter in the soil is vital for agricultural production, as it increases water retention capacity, facilitates the transport of nutrients to plants, and makes soil easier to till. He stated that stubble burning completely eliminates this structure and that the best method is to break down plant residues after harvest and return them to the soil. Tan noted that the organic matter content in agricultural lands in Thrace is at critical levels, with the ideal rate of 5% often falling below 2% in the region. He added that the lack of organic matter also complicates drought management and that in developed countries, harvest residues are mixed into the soil using modern agricultural equipment, and similar practices should become widespread in Turkey.

Tan also emphasized that fires are not only caused by intentional stubble burning but also by cigarette butts thrown on roadsides, unattended barbecue fires, and glass bottles left in nature. He warned that small negligence can lead to significant losses in large agricultural areas and forests. Tan reminded that stubble burning is legally prohibited, and those who engage in this practice face administrative fines under environmental regulations, while causing fires in forested areas can result in penalties including imprisonment.

İslam Köse, Director of the Edirne Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, stated that the risk of fire increases significantly with the harvest season and that fires can destroy farmers' year-long efforts in minutes. He noted that producers are informed annually in line with the governor's circular, and warning efforts are carried out in coordination with mukhtars, chambers of agriculture, and relevant institutions. Köse emphasized the critical importance of having fire extinguishers with at least 6 kg capacity in combine harvesters and keeping water tankers in villages ready for potential fires.

To prevent the spread of fires, Köse recommended creating protective plowing strips 5 to 10 meters wide around harvested fields, which largely prevents flames from spreading to neighboring lands. He stated that the teams of the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry continue their field information activities without interruption and called on producers to avoid stubble burning, emphasizing that protecting both soil fertility and natural life is of great importance for future generations.