JOURNAL OF GEOGRAPHY-COGRAFYA DERGISI, sa.23, ss.19-33, 2011 (ESCI)
The Mengen Basin, which is located in the west of the Black Sea Region and covers an area of 849,9 km2, has provided opportunities for settlement, agriculture, transportation, industry, commerce, mining and tourism throughout its history. Its settlement history dates back to the Neolithic Age. It is situated on prominent roads and thus has always been used as a settlement area. Economy hasn't been active in the area despite its long presence. According to the 2010 data, there are 58 cities and villages and 280 districts in the study area. It is populated by 14623 people. Its climate and flora (forests in particular) have both offered natural beauties and become a source of income. Further, the lignite mines have provided income for the local people in the town Gokcesu, too. Agriculture is unproductive and inefficient, and conducted in limited areas. Other economic activities are not vibrant, either.