In this study, to determine the spatial distribution of the main factors affecting erosion, fairy chimney-like structures in the badlands topography were modelled in 3D using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Subsequently, a digital surface model (DSM) and an orthomosaic map were produced. Trend analysis and spatial analysis techniques were employed to examine temporal patterns in climatic data and spatial relationships between environmental factors. The effects of climate variables, such as temperature, precipitation, and wind, as well as anthropogenic factors, topographic, and geological features on these structures were examined in detail. Quantitative analysis revealed that annual precipitation averaged 760 mm over the 37-year study period (1985-2022), with temperatures showing an increasing trend from 10.92°C (1992) to 14.25°C (2020). Based on the findings, it was determined that the size of the fairy chimney-like natural structures ranges from 24 to 31 meters. Additionally, cracks with depths ranging from 30 to 70 centimeters were identified in the north-south direction. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature by providing the first comprehensive documentation and quantitative analysis of these previously unstudied geological formations within the Kula-Salihli UNESCO Global Geopark boundaries. The research contributes novel insights into the relationship between climatic variables and erosional landform development in Mediterranean badland environments, establishing baseline data for future monitoring and conservation efforts.
Adıyaman et al. (Tue,) studied this question.