Eighty percent of Halfeti district has submerged under the waters of Birecik dam since 2002 and the most fertile soil in the district where the main source of income is farming is now under water. Most of the people who lived there had to migrate. The region is not conducive to industrialization due to its geographical characteristics (its rocky soil and steppe ecosystem). The tourism professionals have become interested in Halfeti after the dam held water and the district turned into a coastal town with the remaining rock houses built in accordance with Rum architecture. Architectural and archeological values accompanied by rare and endemic species (one spot endemics) have led one day trips to come to the forefront as a source of income in the district.

One day trips are organized in the region and the tourists spend a few hours in Halfeti. This kind of tourism does not contribute economically to the local people and the values in the region. Therefore the local people demand and advocate slow growth and small scale and sustainable locally based ecotourism. The development of the district is possible through ecotourism. This form of tourism will build environmental awareness among local people and the biological and cultural diversity will be conserved and publicized.

The aim of this Project is to attract ecotourists (birdwatchers and nature watchers) to the region. With this form of tourism it is possible for tourists to stay longer and spend quality time in the district. Also sustainability of the tourism will be provided. The local products will be sold in some parts of the district and this will provide financial benefits. The local women will have a chance to publicize their handwork and this will contribute to the empowerment of them. The district is already a Slow City candidate and the National Bird Conference will be held there thanks to this project. These will add to the district?s publicity. This project will also be integrated to the traditional Black Rose Festival.

Thanks to this Project which sets an example, the nature of the region will be publicized and financial benefits will be provided both for women who traditionally have secondary positions in this region and also for all Halfeti people. Biodiversity and cultural diversity will be preserved. A hidden paradise Halfeti will be a center for ecotourism with sustainable conservation and thanks to the local people?s support.