From Cutting Scissors to Forests: A Man’s Journey to Transforming the Steppe
Ramazan Uludağ, a newspaper vendor in Kulu district who also sings manis at weddings and engagements, has taken on a new role as a tree planter. Inspired by his shepherd uncle Abdi Taner, who used to bring his animals to graze on Boztepe, Uludağ decided to transform the land into a forest. With the support of his friends and the tips he earned from singing at events, Uludağ bought 2,500 pine tree saplings and planted them on the 20-acre area, now known as the ‘Happy Couples Memorial Forest.’
Uludağ shared his passion for trees and nature, expressing his love for the environment by caring for the trees he planted. He recalled the fond memories of spending time on Boztepe with his uncle and friends, and how they decided to turn the barren land into a green oasis. Through his dedication and hard work, Uludağ has created a beautiful forest that serves as a reminder of the joyous occasions he contributed to with his music.
In his plea to the local community, Uludağ emphasized the importance of protecting the forest and nurturing the trees. Despite the challenges of poor water supply, he continues to water the pine trees regularly to ensure their growth. Uludağ hopes that the younger generation will appreciate the beauty of nature and take responsibility for preserving the forest for future generations to enjoy.
As Uludağ reflects on his journey of transforming Boztepe into a thriving forest, he encourages everyone to embrace the gift of nature and support efforts to create more green spaces in their city. With his ‘Happy Couples Memorial Forest’ as a testament to his love for trees and dedication to the environment, Uludağ reminds us all to cherish and protect the natural world around us.