# Nature and environmental activities in eastern Turkey

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nature-and-environmental-activities-in-eastern-turkey
> Updated: 2026-09-22T00:26:00.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

The eastern regions of Turkey, specifically within the Van and Bitlis provinces, have seen a focus on natural landscapes and environmental engagement. In the Bahçesaray district of Van, melting mountain snow has replenished local waterways like the Müküs Stream, supporting lush greenery and diverse wildlife, including squirrels.

Community activities have since expanded to include organized environmental and traditional events. In the Çatak district of Van, nature clubs participated in traditional organic honey harvesting, noting the challenges posed by the remote terrain and local bear populations. Meanwhile, in the Tatvan district of Bitlis, groups organized water sports and shoreline cleanup efforts at Lake Van. Participants at the lake highlighted the necessity for improved wastewater treatment and better maritime infrastructure to protect the ecosystem.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-22: Nature enthusiasts hold community events in Van and Bitlis

Nature enthusiasts in Turkey conducted honey harvesting in Van's Çatak district and organized a water sports and environmental cleanup event at Lake Van in Bitlis.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nature-enthusiasts-hold-community-events-in-van-and-bitlis

### 2026-08-29: Bahçesaray district experiences vibrant wildlife and lush nature

The Bahçesaray district in Van, Turkey, is seeing vibrant wildlife and lush landscapes as melting mountain snow boosts local water levels and supports the ecosystem.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bahesaray-district-experiences-vibrant-wildlife-and-lush-nature

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Cite as: Nature and environmental activities in eastern Turkey. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nature-and-environmental-activities-in-eastern-turkey