Sustainability Assessment of the Malekshahi Watershed Based on Ecological and Socio-Economic Criteria in Iran

Document Type : Original Research

Authors
E. Fathi 1
A. Talebi 2
M. Ekhtesasi 3
J. Mosaffaie 4
Z. Akbari 1
1 PhD Student in Watershed Science and Engineering, Department of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Faculty of Natural Resources and Desertology, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran.
2 Yazd University
3 Professor, Rangeland and Watershed Department, Faculty of Natural Resources and Desertology, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran.
4 Associate Professor, Soil Conservation and Watershed Management Research Institute, AgriculturalResearch,Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran
10.22034/ECOPERSIA.13.2.165
Abstract
Aims: Achieving sustainable development requires a balanced interaction between ecological, economic, and social dimensions. This study aims to assess the sustainability of the Malekshahi watershed based on the indicators defined in the Monitoring and Evaluation Guidelines for Natural Resource Management Plans in Iran.

Materials & Methods: In this regard, four ecosystems—forest, rangeland, aquatic, and human—were examined. The forest ecosystem was evaluated based on six criteria, including forest resource extent, biodiversity, health, vitality and integrity, productive functions of forest resources, protective and environmental functions, and socio-economic functions. The rangeland ecosystem was assessed using soil sustainability, vegetation cover, and socio-economic sustainability criteria. The aquatic ecosystem was analyzed using eight water quality indicators, including electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), dissolved phosphorus index, phytoplankton index, biological oxygen demand (BOD), FBI index, and fish index. The human ecosystem was analyzed based on nine criteria, including population dynamics, poverty and livelihood conditions, education and skills, nutrition and food security, health and sanitation, housing and public services, land-use change, technology and productivity, and institutional organization and development. Findings: The results showed that the forest ecosystem (score: 55), human ecosystem (19.2), and aquatic ecosystem were in a good condition, while the rangeland ecosystem (48) was in a moderate condition. The final watershed sustainability score was 8.36, indicating a moderate level of sustainability in the region.

Conclusion: Emphasizing the balance among these ecosystems through an ecosystem-based approach can contribute to improving sustainability. These findings are applicable in watershed management and land-use planning.
Keywords
Sustainability
Watershed
Ecosystem Assessment
Natural resources
Ecological Management

Subjects

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