Application of GIS and AHP for land use suitability analysis: case of Demirci district (Turkey)

Abstract The current study aims to create a land use suitability map for the Demirci district of Manisa province in which Analytical Hierarchy Process, one multi-criteria decision-making techniques, and Weighted Overlay methods are used. Eleven factors (soil, LCC, OSC, erosion, soil depth, elevation, slope, aspect, geomorphology, temperature, precipitation) affecting were determined according previous similar studies expert consultation. Priorities basic types also designated based on After this process, layer maps created using GIS software. With these maps, was drawn through an analytic hierarchy process weighted overlay analysis. terms three different forms use, namely forest, meadow-pasture, agricultural areas revealed. As result study, it has been revealed that most incompatibility between is land. results indicate should be pasture used as agriculture forest areas. southern slopes Simav-Demirci Mountains, Asi Tepe, its surroundings suitable not only contributes local national economy by revealing unsuitable uses research area suggesting ways but helps continuity ecosystem ensuring protection natural