دانشگاه کاشان مهندسی اکوسیستم بیابان 2538-6336 14 49 2026 02 20 Assessing Land Susceptibility to Wind Erosion in the Sejzi Dust Source, Isfahan تعیین حساسیت اراضی به فرسایش بادی در کانون گردوغبار سجزی اصفهان 1 14 115243 ‎10.22052/deej.2025.256845.1107 FA سید مرتضی ابطحی بخش تحقیقات منابع طبیعی، مرکز تحقیقات و آموزش کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی استان اصفهان، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، کاشان، ایران. حمید رضا عباسی گروه بخش تحقیقات بیابان، موسسه تحقیقات جنگلها و مراتع کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، تهران، ایران Journal Article 2025 05 11 Introduction: Dust storms are a severe environmental phenomenon prevalent in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide. They inflict substantial socioeconomic damage by disrupting communication systems, land and air transportation, and reducing national income. Furthermore, they pose critical risks to human and animal health, sometimes resulting in fatalities. This research aims to address this issue in the dust source areas of eastern Isfahan. The study is designed to identify zones sensitive to wind erosion and dust generation, and to investigate the dynamics of dust storms through an analysis of wind intensity and the calculation of threshold velocities across the study area. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted to characterize erosive winds, delineate dust sources, and assess land susceptibility to wind erosion in the Sejzi region of Isfahan. Hourly wind speed and direction data from four meteorological stations—Isfahan, East Isfahan, Murcheh Khort, and Kabutarabad—were analyzed to determine the direction, intensity, and energy of erosive winds. Potential dust source areas were first identified through the interpretation of satellite imagery and subsequent field surveys. Following the confirmation of dust sources, land units were delineated on a map. A total of nine soil samples were collected for the analysis of physical and chemical properties, and an additional six samples were dedicated to determining wind threshold velocity and soil erodibility. The erosion potential of the soils was quantified using a wind tunnel, where sediment removal rates were measured at various wind speeds to determine the threshold wind velocity through both observational and computational methods. Furthermore, the shear and compressive strengths of the terrain were evaluated, and the physical and chemical properties of the soil samples were analyzed in the laboratory. Results: The analysis of wind data revealed that the energy of erosive winds, quantified by the Sand Transport Potential (STP) index, is classified as high at the East Isfahan station and medium to low at the other stations (Isfahan, Murcheh Khort, and Kabutarabad). The prevailing direction of these erosive winds is predominantly from the east to west, extending from the Sejzi Plain towards the city of Isfahan. Laboratory and field measurements of soil properties showed a threshold wind velocity for particle entrainment ranging from 6.5 to 12 m/s. Furthermore, the geotechnical analysis indicated that the shear strength of the topsoil varies between 1.0 and 2.06 kg/cm², while the compressive strength ranges from 1.1 to 2.0 kg/cm². Discussion and conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that the Sejzi region poses a significant environmental threat to Isfahan, primarily due to its potent combination of high-energy easterly winds and erodible surface soils. The determined threshold wind velocities (6.5-12 m/s) are frequently exceeded, as evidenced by the wind energy analysis, confirming the high potential for dust emission and transport directly toward the city. Therefore, given this region's critical role as a dust source, the implementation of targeted restoration strategies is not just beneficial but imperative. Any such strategies must be fundamentally informed by the soil's specific physical and chemical properties—such as its low shear strength and specific texture—to ensure effectiveness and long-term sustainability. Mitigation measures could include the stabilization of highly erodible units identified in this study through mechanical methods (such as checkerboards) or biological approaches (using native, drought-resistant vegetation), tailored to the distinct conditions of each mapped land unit. فرسایش بادی و طوفان‌های گردوغبار به یکی از اساسی‌ترین چالش‌های کشور و استان اصفهان تبدیل شده است. بدین منظور، ویژگی‌های بادهای فرساینده و حساسیت اراضی به فرسایش بادی در منطقۀ سجزی واقع در شرق اصفهان مورد مطالعه قرار گرفت. با استفاده از آمار سرعت و جهت باد ساعتی چهار ایستگاه هواشناسی، جهت، شدت و انرژی بادهای فرساینده محاسبه شد. محدودۀ کانون گردوغبار سجزی، به کمک تصاویر ماهواره‌ای و مطالعات میدانی مشخص گردید. برای تعیین خصوصیات فیزیکی و شیمیایی و محاسبۀ سرعت آستانه باد و فرسایش‌پذیری خاک، به ‌ترتیب 9 و 6 نمونه برداشت شد. میزان فرسایش در سرعت‌های مختلف باد در تونل باد اندازه‌گیری و سرعت آستانۀ باد به دو روش مشاهداتی و محاسباتی تعیین گردید. مقاومت فشاری و برشی خاک در عرصه به کمک دستگاه پنترومتر و توروین اندازه‌گیری شد. نتایج نشان داد که انرژی بادهای فرساینده براساس شاخص پتانسیل حمل ماسه در ایستگاه شرق اصفهان در کلاس زیاد است. جهت باد غالب فرساینده از شرق به غرب، یعنی از دشت سجزی به سمت شهر اصفهان است. آستانۀ فرسایش بادی از 5/6 تا 12 متر بر ثانیه متغیراست و مقاومت برشی خاک سطحی از1 تا 06/2 و مقاومت فشاری از 1/1 تا 2 گرم بر سانتی‌متر مکعب تغییر می‌کند. با توجه به نتایج، حساسیت خاک منطقۀ سجزی به فرسایش بادی، بسیار بالاست. جنگل‌کاری و بوته‌کاری با گونه‌های بومی و مقاوم و استفاده از مالچ‌های سازگار با محیط‌زیست در نقاط حساس‌تر به‌همراه مدیریت بهره‌برداری از سرزمین و معادن پیشنهاد می‌شود.

https://deej.kashanu.ac.ir/article_115243_e9e99115458275568a4f8fd68368b1dc.pdf

دانشگاه کاشان مهندسی اکوسیستم بیابان 2538-6336 14 49 2026 02 20 Exploration and Analysis of Indigenous Knowledge for Sustainable Living in Desert Regions کاوش و تحلیل دانش بومی برای زندگی پایدار در مناطق بیابانی 15 28 115259 ‎10.22052/deej.2025.257176.1112 FA معصومه پازکی استادیار پژوهشی بخش تحقیقات اقتصادی - اجتماعی و ترویج کشاورزی، مرکز تحققیات و آموزش کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی استان سمنان، سازمان تحقیقات، سیدجعفر سیداخلاقی استادیار پژوهشی بخش تحقیقات بیابان، موسسه تحقیقات جنگلها و مراتع کشور، سازمان تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی، تهران، ایران Journal Article 2025 07 12 Introduction: Arid and semi-arid regions are among the most ecologically fragile ecosystems on Earth. Environmental stressors in these zones—including water scarcity, soil degradation, and extreme temperature fluctuations—inhibit the establishment of sufficient vegetative cover, thereby hindering erosion control and ecological balance. Persistent threats from desertification further challenge environmental resilience and the sustainability of local livelihoods. Within this context, Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS)—understood as dynamic, experiential, and place-based knowledge developed through the long-term interaction of local communities with their environments—play a critical role. These knowledge systems offer practical solutions for natural resource management, particularly in soil and water conservation, sustainable agriculture, and climate adaptation. However, in many arid regions, notably Iran, this invaluable body of knowledge is increasingly threatened by marginalization, a lack of formal documentation, and methodological neglect in mainstream planning. This study seeks to address this gap by systematically identifying, analyzing, and synthesizing the key components of indigenous knowledge related to environmental and livelihood sustainability in Garmsar County, an arid region of Iran. Transmitted informally across generations, this knowledge remains underutilized in contemporary policy and development planning. By documenting and integrating it into regional strategies, there is significant potential to enhance ecological resilience and foster community-based sustainable development. Methodology: This study adopted a qualitative approach, utilizing thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) to investigate the structure and content of indigenous knowledge. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants—including local elders, farmers, pastoralists, and holders of traditional ecological knowledge—selected for their deep-rooted experience in agriculture and resource management within desert landscapes. Participants were identified through purposive sampling to ensure they met predefined criteria of expertise and long-term local engagement. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The analysis followed Braun and Clarke's (2006) six-step model: (1) familiarization with the data, (2) generation of initial codes, (3) searching for themes, (4) reviewing themes, (5) defining and naming themes, and (6) producing the final report. To ensure analytical rigor, inter-coder reliability was assessed using Cohen’s Kappa coefficient. The calculated value of 0.6875 (p < 0.0005) indicates a strong level of agreement and consistency between coders. Results: Thematic analysis identified seven core themes that reflect the structure and application of indigenous knowledge for sustainable living in Garmsar County. These themes encompass strategies for resource management, social organization, and adaptive practice. Indigenous Water and Soil Conservation: This theme encompasses techniques directly aimed at combating desertification. Practices include constructing earthen bunds and stone lines for erosion control, employing rainfall harvesting calendars, and applying ash or burying organic waste to enhance soil moisture retention and fertility. Revitalization of Traditional Hydraulic Infrastructure: A key finding is the community-led restoration and maintenance of traditional water systems, such as qanats (subterranean canals) and cisterns. This revitalization often occurs through collaborative efforts aligned with local development projects. Knowledge Transmission and Community Cohesion: Indigenous knowledge is actively sustained through intergenerational exchange. Mechanisms include localized oral education, storytelling, and the purposeful involvement of youth and women in traditional practices, which reinforces social cohesion and cultural identity. Climate-Resilient Agronomic Practices: Adaptive agricultural strategies are central to livelihood sustainability. These include cultivating drought-resistant native crops (e.g., millet, sesame), utilizing flexible planting schedules based on traditional phenological calendars, and employing dryland farming techniques. Customary Land and Resource Governance: The sustainable management of farms and rangelands is guided by established customary norms. Practices such as regulated seasonal grazing, crop rotation, and contour plowing are communally upheld to optimize the use of marginal ecosystems. Synergistic Integration with Scientific Knowledge: Findings reveal a practical co-production of knowledge, where modern tools (e.g., soil moisture sensors) are strategically integrated with local experiential wisdom. This synergy enhances decision-making without displacing indigenous systems. Ecologically-Based Soil Fertility Management: Traditional soil enrichment relies on low-external-input methods. These include the application of ash, in-situ decomposition of organic matter, and biological pest management, which collectively maintain long-term soil productivity. Discussion and Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the indigenous knowledge system of Garmsar County functions not as static historical memory but as a dynamic, living framework—one that is responsive, adaptive, and grounded in a deep ecological logic. The documented techniques are deeply embedded within local social structures and are continuously informed by collective, long-term environmental experience. The analysis reveals that the revitalization of traditional infrastructure, particularly when coupled with appropriate institutional support, presents a viable pathway for bridging formal development goals with community-based resilience. Furthermore, the intergenerational transmission of knowledge and the empowerment of marginalized groups are critical social mechanisms that reinforce the system's long-term sustainability. These findings align with international perspectives, such as that of the UN Scientific Advisory Board (2016), which recognizes local and indigenous knowledge as a foundational pillar for achieving climate resilience and the Sustainable Development Goals. Significantly, the observed integration of traditional practices with modern technologies illustrates a productive model of knowledge co-creation. This synergy, as corroborated by global research (e.g., Pretty et al., 2011; Kupika et al., 2025), is essential for developing locally relevant, culturally appropriate, and climate-adaptive policies. In summary, the indigenous knowledge of Garmsar County constitutes a coherent and multifunctional framework for sustainability, integrating ecological, social, and cultural dimensions. It offers invaluable, place-based insights for addressing contemporary challenges of desertification, natural resource management, and rural livelihood resilience. Therefore, systematically recognizing, documenting, and mainstreaming this knowledge is imperative. It serves not as a replacement for, but as a vital complement to scientific expertise, and it holds significant potential to inform future policies for desert conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable development. بیابان‌زایی یکی از مهلک‌ترین خطراتی است که در هزارۀ سوم میلادی، حیات را در تمامی ابعادش مورد تهدید قرار داده است. بنا بر اهمیت این موضوع، پژوهش حاضر با هدف شناسایی و تحلیل دانش بومی جوامع محلی شهرستان گرمسار در راستای زندگی پایدار در مناطق بیابانی انجام شده ‌است. این مطالعه با رویکرد کیفی و روش تحلیل مضمونی صورت ‌گرفته ‌است. داده‌ها ازطریق مصاحبه‌های نیمه‌ساختاریافته با خبرگان محلی گردآوری شد و پس از کدگذاری اولیه، به استخراج مضامین انجامید. یافته‌ها نشان داد که دانش بومی منطقه، ساختاری منسجم و منطبق با شرایط اکولوژیکی بیابانی دارد و شامل هفت مضمون اصلی است: مدیریت بومی منابع آب و خاک، احیای زیرساخت‌های سنتی، توسعۀ منابع انسانی، کشاورزی سازگار با خشکسالی، مدیریت دیم‌زارها، تلفیق دانش بومی و نوین و حفاظت بومی از خاک. این مضامین بازتابی از تجربه‌های میان‌نسلی و راهبردهای محلی برای مقابله با خشکسالی، فرسایش و کاهش منابع آبی هستند. نتایج پژوهش نشان می‌دهد که دانش بومی، ابزاری اثربخش در توسعۀ پایدار و سازگاری با تغییرات اقلیمی در مناطق خشک است و می‌تواند مکملی مهم برای سیاست‌های رسمی مدیریت منابع طبیعی باشد. پیشنهاد می‌شود این دانش در برنامه‌ریزی‌های منطقه‌ای و سیاست‌های بیابان‌زدایی مورد بهره‌برداری قرار گیرد.

https://deej.kashanu.ac.ir/article_115259_aa9e8aebb9032457cecf482a7e4e0303.pdf

دانشگاه کاشان مهندسی اکوسیستم بیابان 2538-6336 14 49 2026 02 20 Comparative Analysis of A1FI-MI and B1TME Climate Change Scenarios on Iranian Saffron Cultivation تحلیل تطبیقی سناریوهای A1FI-MI و B1TME تغییر اقلیم در کشت زعفران ایران 29 42 115279 ‎10.22052/deej.2025.257048.1110 FA ایمان سعیدی گروه علوم و مهندسی محیط زیست، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و محیط زیست، دانشگاه ملایر، ثمر مرتضوی گروه علوم و مهندسی محیط زیست، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و محیط زیست، دانشگاه ملایر، ملایر، ایران میلاد حسنوند گروه علوم و مهندسی محیط زیست، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و محیط زیست، دانشگاه ملایر، ملایر، ایران Journal Article 2025 09 20 Introduction: Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), the dried stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, is the world's most valuable spice by weight. Its exceptional economic value is underpinned by a precise dependence on specific climatic conditions, making it acutely vulnerable to global climate change. As the dominant global producer, contributing approximately 90% of world output, Iran's agricultural sector, rural economies, and export revenues are intrinsically linked to the sustainable cultivation of this "red gold." The crop's phenology, especially its critical flowering stage, is highly sensitive to subtle variations in temperature and precipitation regimes, underscoring the necessity for long-term strategic planning. This study conducts a rigorous comparative analysis of the potential impacts of two divergent climate change scenarios on the spatial and qualitative suitability for saffron cultivation across Iran. These scenarios represent contrasting futures for global development and energy policy. The first, the A1FI-MI scenario from the IPCC's Special Report on Emissions Scenarios (SRES), projects a future of rapid economic growth driven by intensive fossil fuel consumption. The second, the B1TME scenario, envisions a globally convergent pathway prioritizing sustainability, characterized by a transition to a service and information economy and the widespread adoption of clean, resource-efficient technologies. The primary objective of this research is to project 21st-century changes in key climatic variables—specifically temperature and precipitation—and to quantitatively evaluate their effects on the geographic distribution and quality of land deemed climatically optimal for saffron production in Iran. By employing advanced geospatial modeling, this work addresses a critical knowledge gap. It provides a detailed, scenario-based assessment essential for policymakers, agricultural planners, and farmers to formulate robust, long-term adaptation and resource management strategies to protect this cornerstone of Iranian agriculture. Materials and Methods: This study employed an integrated geospatial modeling approach, primarily utilizing the TerrSet Geospatial Monitoring and Modeling System. The core climatic analysis was performed using the system's Climate Change Adaptation Modeler (CCAM) component. The methodology comprised four sequential steps. First, the two representative emission scenarios, A1FI-MI (fossil-fuel intensive) and B1TME (sustainable transition), were selected to encompass a range of plausible future climates. Second, the MAGICC (Model for the Assessment of Greenhouse-gas Induced Climate Change) model was employed to generate global-scale temperature change projections. Key MAGICC parameters were configured following IPCC guidelines, including a climate sensitivity of 3.0°C for a doubling of atmospheric CO₂ concentration. The baseline year was set to 1990, with projections extended to 2100. Third, the SCENGEN (SCENario GENerator) model was used to statistically downscale the global climate projections from MAGICC. SCENGEN translated broad-scale temperature changes into high-resolution (approximately 50 km) spatial datasets of projected changes in temperature and precipitation. To enhance the reliability of the projections and account for inter-model variability, an ensemble average of 18 different Ocean-Atmosphere General Circulation Models (OAGCMs) was computed for each scenario for the target years of 2070 and 2100. The fourth step involved assessing the impact of these projected climatic changes on saffron cultivation suitability, using the Crop Climate Suitability Modeling (CCSM) module within TerrSet. The CCSM model evaluates suitability based on a crop's specific biophysical requirements, defined by optimal and absolute threshold parameters for temperature (e.g., TMIN, TOPMIN, TOPMAX, TMAX, KTMP) and precipitation (e.g., RMIN, ROPMIN, ROPMAX, RMAX). The parameterization for saffron was calibrated using established ecological requirements from the scientific literature. To ensure practical applicability, the initial climatic suitability outputs were refined by applying a series of constraining "mask" layers. These masks systematically excluded areas unsuitable or unavailable for agriculture, including urban zones, water bodies, dense forests, protected areas, and lands with slopes exceeding 8 degrees, based on data from MODIS land cover classification. The final outputs were detailed raster maps classifying Iran's land area into six suitability categories for saffron cultivation: "Unsuitable," "Very Low," "Low," "Medium," "High," and "Very High." Results The modeling results reveal starkly divergent futures for Iranian saffron cultivation, fundamentally dependent on the global emission pathway followed. Under the high-emission A1FI-MI scenario, a pronounced and sustained increase in global mean temperature was projected, driving severe alterations in Iran's local climatic patterns. The analysis indicates a dramatic contraction in land area with high suitability for saffron. Specifically, the area classified as "Very High" suitability plummeted from 4.05% (66,182 km²) of the country's total area in 2070 to a mere 0.62% (10,196 km²) by 2100—representing a decline of approximately 85%. Concurrently, the total area deemed "Unsuitable" for cultivation expanded significantly, rising from 79.55% to over 80.13% by the century's end. Geographically, this trend manifested as a severe degradation of suitability in the traditional saffron heartlands of the eastern provinces (South Khorasan, Razavi Khorasan, and North Khorasan), driven primarily by extreme heat stress and adverse shifts in precipitation regimes. Notably, the model projected a distinct spatial shift, with some areas in western and northwestern provinces (e.g., Kermanshah, Hamedan, and Kurdistan) emerging as newly suitable or retaining suitability due to more moderated future climate conditions. In direct contrast, the sustainable B1TME scenario projected a far more attenuated rise in global temperatures. The consequent climatic changes across Iran were less severe, resulting in a significantly more favorable outlook. While the area of "Very High" suitability also decreased (from 3.95% to 0.93% by 2100), the overall landscape of suitability underwent a transformative change. The most critical finding was the substantial contraction of "Unsuitable" land, which fell from 78.72% in 2070 to 55.02% in 2100. This reduction corresponded with a marked expansion in land area classified as having "Low" suitability (increasing from 5.07% to 14.59%) and "Very Low" suitability (increasing from 3.05% to 12.14%). This indicates that while optimal "Very High" suitability zones diminish under both scenarios, the B1TME pathway preserves an extensive strategic reserve of land with marginal to moderate climatic suitability. This provides critical adaptive capacity and long-term resilience, allowing cultivation to persist—though potentially requiring adjusted agronomic practices—across significantly larger portions of the country, particularly in central and western regions. Discussion and Conclusion The findings of this study underscore the profound threat that unmitigated climate change poses to Iranian saffron production, while simultaneously highlighting how global policy decisions critically determine the severity of these impacts. The drastic reduction in climatically suitable land under the A1FI-MI scenario quantifies the significant yield declines previously projected for eastern Iran under high-emission pathways, driven primarily by increased extreme heat and altered precipitation. The identification of a potential north-western shift in suitability under the A1FI-MI scenario offers a crucial, novel insight, though it necessitates detailed investigation into non-climatic factors such as soil quality, water resource availability, and socio-economic readiness for adopting a new cash crop in these regions. The most salient conclusion is the clear quantitative evidence for the benefits of mitigation. The comparative success of the B1TME scenario in preserving a vast area of cultivable land validates the imperative to integrate sustainable development and clean energy policies into strategic planning. This research moves beyond identifying vulnerabilities; it provides a compelling, evidence-based argument that a sustainable global pathway is not merely an environmental goal but a direct economic necessity for safeguarding Iran's flagship agricultural product and the livelihoods it supports. In conclusion, to ensure the resilience of Iran's saffron industry, the following strategic actions are recommended: Prioritize Immediate Adaptation in Vulnerable Regions:Develop and deploy climate-smart agricultural practices in the eastern heartlands. This requires investment in efficient irrigation technologies, the development of drought and heat-tolerant cultivars, and the implementation of soil moisture conservation techniques. Champion Sustainable Development Policies:The results unequivocally demonstrate that a B1TME-like pathway offers a far more secure future. National policy should actively promote reduced fossil fuel dependency, renewable energy adoption, and the integration of environmental sustainability into all economic and agricultural planning. Initiate Feasibility Studies in Emerging Regions:Conduct detailed agro-ecological and socio-economic feasibility studies in the identified potential new suitable areas in western and northwestern Iran. This preparatory work is essential to inform a managed, equitable, and beneficial geographic transition, should it become necessary. Enhance Integrated Research and Monitoring:Invest in long-term, high-resolution regional climate modeling and establish robust environmental monitoring networks. Future research must integrate climatic projections with hydrological data, detailed soil mapping, and socio-economic analysis to provide a holistic foundation for adaptive decision-making. زعفران (Crocus sativus L.) به‌عنوان یک محصول با ارزش اقتصادی بالا، به‌دلیل وابستگی عمیق به شرایط اقلیمی منطقه، در برابر تغییرات اقلیمی، آسیب‌پذیری ویژه‌ای دارد. این تحقیق به ارزیابی تأثیرات تغییر اقلیم بر مناطق مناسب برای کشت زعفران در ایران پرداخته و دو سناریوی اقلیمی A1FI-MI (نمایانگر ادامۀ روند مصرف سوخت‌های فسیلی) و B1TME (نمایانگر گذار به‌سمت فناوری‌های پایدار) را با یکدیگر مقایسه می‌کند. در این مطالعه از نرم‌افزار TerrSet به‌همراه ابزار مدل‌ساز سازگاری تغییر اقلیم (CCAM) استفاده شده و مدل‌های MAGICC7 و SCENGEN برای تولید نقشه‌های تغییرات دمایی و بارشی تا سال 2100 به کار گرفته شدند. داده‌های مرجع اقلیمی (1981-2010) نیز در تحلیل‌های میدانی در نظر گرفته شده‌اند. نتایج نشان می‌دهد که تحت سناریوی A1FI-MI، مساحت مناطق با «توان بسیار زیاد» برای کشت زعفران تا سال ۲۱۰۰ حدود ۸۵% کاهش یافته و از 05/4% به 62/0% از مساحت کل کشور می‌رسد. هم‌زمان، سهم کل زمین‌های فاقد توان کشت به بیش از ۸۰% افزایش می‌یابد که حاکی از کاهش شدید پتانسیل تولید، به‌ویژه در مناطق شرقی است. درمقابل، تحت سناریوی B1TME، اگرچه مناطق با «توان بسیار زیاد» کاهش (تا 93/0%) می‌یابند، یک تغییر مکانی مثبت رخ داده و سهم زمین‌های فاقد توان به‌طور چشمگیری از ۷2/۷8% به 02/55% کاهش می‌یابد. این کاهش عمدتاً به نفع ایجاد یک ذخیرۀ راهبردی از زمین‌های با «توان کم» (افزایش از 07/5% به ۱۴/۵۹%) و «توان بسیار کم» (افزایش از 05/3% به ۱۲/۱۴%) است. یافته‌ها بر ضرورت فوری تدوین راهبرد‌های سازگاری، مدیریت هوشمند منابع و برنامه‌ریزی برای بهره‌برداری از پتانسیل مناطق جدید در غرب و شمال غرب کشور تحت سناریوی پایدار تأکید می‌کنند.

https://deej.kashanu.ac.ir/article_115279_f17bd98ae108e1bf5f1077d07c0c00c2.pdf

دانشگاه کاشان مهندسی اکوسیستم بیابان 2538-6336 14 49 2026 02 20 Effects of Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria on Physiological Traits, Ion Homeostasis, and Yield of Camelina sativa Under Combined Drought and Dust Stress تأثیر باکتری‌های محرک رشد گیاه بر خصوصیات فیزیولوژیک، محتوای یونی و عملکرد گیاه کاملینا تحت تنش‌های خشکی و گردوغبار 43 58 115307 ‎10.22052/deej.2025.257644.1120 FA حمید گل آرائی گروه مدیریت بیابان، دانشکده منابع طبیعی، دانشگاه یزد اصغر مصلح آرانی گروه محیط زیست، دانشکده منابع طبیعی دانشگاه یزد حسن اعتصامی گروه علوم خاک، دانشگاه تهران رضا دهقانی بیدگلی گروه مهندسی طبیعت، دانشگاه کاشان Journal Article 2025 10 23 Introduction: Environmental stresses, particularly drought and dust, pose significant constraints to agricultural productivity, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Camelina sativa, an oilseed crop valued for its nutritional and industrial applications, exhibits sensitivity to these abiotic stressors, which can adversely affect its physiological, biochemical, and morphological processes. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of inoculating C. sativa with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB)—Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Bacillus halotolerans, applied individually and as a 1:1 consortium—on the plant’s physiological and biochemical responses, as well as its overall growth performance, under combined drought and dust stress conditions.Materials and Methods: The bacterial strains were procured from the Regional Collection Center for Industrial Fungi and Bacteria of Iran. Four inoculation treatments were prepared at a final concentration of 3×10⁸ CFU mL⁻¹: a non-inoculated control, B. amyloliquefaciens alone, B. halotolerans alone, and a 1:1 mixture of both strains. Healthy Camelina seeds were bacterized via immersion in the respective suspensions for two hours prior to sowing. Seeds were planted at a density of 40 seeds per square meter in plots arranged in a completely randomized design. Plants were subjected to three irrigation regimes: 4-day intervals (well-watered control), 6-day intervals (moderate drought), and 8-day intervals (severe drought). Simultaneously, dust stress was applied using particulates (<10 µm) collected from identified critical emission sources in Aran and Bidgol, Isfahan Province, simulating natural deposition rates ranging from 0.57 to 1.13 g m⁻² day⁻¹. Leaf samples were collected prior to seed maturity for biochemical analyses, including the quantification of chlorophyll *a*, *b*, and total chlorophyll; carotenoids; ascorbic acid; total phenolic content; proline; soluble sugars; and essential nutrients (N, P, K, Ca). Growth and yield parameters, such as dry biomass, seed yield, and root dry weight, were also measured. All data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS software, and means were compared using Duncan’s multiple range test at a 5% probability level (α = 0.05). Results: Drought and dust stress significantly altered nutrient content and biochemical parameters in C. sativa. Nitrogen content declined under both stresses, indicating impaired uptake likely due to reduced transpiration, disrupted membrane integrity, and suppressed nitrate reductase activity under dust exposure. Inoculation with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) significantly increased nitrogen content under stress, attributable to biological nitrogen fixation and enhanced protein synthesis, consistent with prior studies on PGPR-mediated stress alleviation. Calcium concentration decreased under drought but was elevated by bacterial inoculation, suggesting a role in reinforcing cell wall stability and stress-signaling pathways. Phosphorus content was also reduced under drought and dust stress; however, PGPB inoculation—particularly with B. amyloliquefaciens and B. halotolerans—increased phosphorus availability through phosphate solubilization, organic acid production, and enzymatic mineralization. Potassium levels were primarily reduced by dust stress, and bacterial inoculation, especially with B. amyloliquefaciens, enhanced potassium uptake, likely through improved ion homeostasis and exopolysaccharide-mediated sodium sequestration. Proline and phenolic compounds accumulated significantly under drought and dust stress, functioning as osmoprotectants and antioxidants. Bacterial inoculation reduced stress-induced proline accumulation, indicating improved water status, hormonal modulation (IAA, cytokinins, gibberellins), and enhanced root development. Soluble sugars decreased under stress, particularly under combined drought and dust conditions, due to stomatal closure and reduced photosynthetic efficiency. However, PGPB inoculation—notably with B. halotolerans—increased soluble sugar content, reflecting better osmotic adjustment and sustained metabolic activity. Chlorophyll *b* and carotenoids were sensitive to stress, showing marked reductions under drought and dust. Bacterial treatments increased chlorophyll content while lowering carotenoid accumulation, suggesting reduced oxidative stress through improved nutrient uptake and induced antioxidant activity. Morphological traits, including shoot dry weight, root dry weight, and seed yield, were adversely affected by drought and dust stress. Inoculation with B. halotolerans significantly improved seed weight and shoot biomass, whereas B. amyloliquefaciens primarily enhanced root dry weight. These improvements can be linked to better nutrient acquisition, phytohormonal stimulation, and maintenance of photosynthetic pigments under stress. The combined bacterial inoculation demonstrated synergistic effects, promoting overall plant resilience and yield stability under adverse conditions. Discussion and Conclusion: This study demonstrates that concurrent drought and dust stress disrupt key physiological and biochemical processes in C. sativa, leading to reduced soluble sugars, nitrogen, phosphorus, and chlorophyll *b*, alongside increased proline, phenolics, calcium, potassium, and carotenoids. Dust stress was observed to intensify the effects of drought on several measured parameters. Inoculation with B. amyloliquefaciens and B. halotolerans—both individually and in combination—effectively mitigated these adverse effects. The bacterial treatments enhanced nutrient uptake, regulated osmolyte accumulation, boosted antioxidant capacity, and stimulated growth-promoting hormonal activity, collectively improving physiological performance and seed yield under stress conditions. These findings underscore the potential of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) as a sustainable and eco-friendly strategy for enhancing crop resilience in arid and semi-arid regions. The results further emphasize the importance of selecting specific bacterial strains based on prevailing environmental conditions and stress types to optimize plant productivity and stress adaptation. گردوغبار و تنش خشکی در مناطق خشک به‌عنوان رخدادهایی که وقوع آن‌ها به‌طور هم‌زمان اتفاق می‌افتد، تأثیر مخربی بر اکوسیستم‌های زراعی دارند. این مطالعه به بررسی تأثیر دو باکتری محرک رشد گیاه B.amyloliquefaciens وB. halotolerans بر صفات فیزیولوژیکی، بیوشیمیایی و عملکردی گیاه کاملینا (Camelina sativa) تحت تنش‌ خشکی و گردوغبار می‌پردازد. آزمایش فاکتوریل در قالب طرح بلوک‌ کامل تصادفی با تیمارهای مختلف شامل تلقیح انفرادی و ترکیبی دو باکتری، آبیاری در سه سطح دورۀ آبیاری (4، 6 و 8 روز یک بار) و گردوغبار در دو سطح اجرا شد. نتایج نشان داد که تأثیر هم‌زمان خشکی و گردوغبار بر روی کاملینا مخرب‌تر از تأثیر هرکدام به‌تنهایی است. در این میان، گردوغبار تأثیر منفی کمتری نسبت به خشکی بر گیاه کاملینا داشت. تأثیر هم‌زمان کم آبیاری و گردوغبار موجب کاهش جذب عناصر معدنی نیتروژن و فسفر، کلروفیل b، وزن بذر در هر پایه و وزن خشک ریشه و اندام هوایی و افزایش کلسیم، قندهای محلول و کاروتنوئید شد. درحالی‌که خشکی به‌تنهایی موجب کاهش وزن بذر و افزایش فنل شد، گردوغبار تغییری در مقدار آن‌ها ایجاد نکرد در مقابل گردوغبار مقدار کلروفیل b را افزایش داد. تلقیح باکتریایی (هر باکتری به‌تنهایی یا ترکیب باهم) در اغلب موارد موجب بهبود شرایط فیزیولوژیکی و عملکردی کاملینا شد. در این میان، B. halotolerans عملکرد بهتری نسبت به B. amyloliquefaciens و ترکیب دو باکتری در اغلب صفات اندازه‌گیری‌شده داشت. یافته‌های این تحقیق بر اهمیت استفاده از ترکیب هم‌زمان باکتری‌های محرک رشد گیاه به‌عنوان راهکاری زیستی پایدار برای بهبود رشد گیاهانی که اغلب با چندین تنش روبه‌رو هستند تأکید دارد.

https://deej.kashanu.ac.ir/article_115307_b902ad5ca920b9da07bd205334a0ecad.pdf

دانشگاه کاشان مهندسی اکوسیستم بیابان 2538-6336 14 49 2026 02 20 Evaluation of Climate Change Scenarios’ Effects on Vegetation Cover in Arid and Semi-Arid Rangelands ارزیابی اثرات سناریوهای تغییر اقلیم بر میزان پوشش گیاهی مراتع خشک و نیمه‌خشک 59 70 115310 ‎10.22052/deej.2026.258037.1130 FA مریم پیرمحمدی بارده دانشگاه شهرکرد، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و علوم زمین، گروه مرتع پژمان طهماسبی کهیانی دانشگاه شهرکرد، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و علوم زمین، گروه مرتع اسماعیل اسدی بروجنی دانشگاه شهرکرد، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و علوم زمین، گروه مرتع محسن فعال فیض آبادی دکتری تخصصی، اداره منابع طبیعی و آبخیزداری شهرستان کاشمر، ایران Journal Article 2025 12 01 Introduction: Dry and semi-arid rangelands are vital ecosystems, encompassing approximately 40–50% of the Earth's terrestrial surface. These regions provide essential ecological services, such as forage production, soil conservation, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity maintenance. However, climate change poses a significant threat to these fragile environments through altered temperature regimes, modified precipitation patterns, and an increased frequency of extreme weather events. In Iran—particularly in the provinces of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari and Isfahan—these challenges are further exacerbated by prevailing overgrazing and unsustainable land management practices. This study aims to quantitatively evaluate the impacts of different climate change scenarios on vegetation dynamics within these critical rangeland ecosystems. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted across three key regions—Marjan, Qomishlu, and Sangsefid—selected to represent a gradient of ecological conditions based on precipitation and temperature. Field sampling was carried out during the peak vegetation growth period (mid-May to late June). In each region, seven study sites were established. Within each site, three 30 m × 30 m plots were delineated, and four 2 m × 2 m quadrats were randomly placed inside each plot for detailed assessment. Vegetation cover percentage was estimated visually, and annual plant biomass was harvested, cut 1 cm above the soil surface, and weighed. Future climate projections were obtained from the MRI-ESM2-0 model within the CMIP6 database, considering four Shared Socioeconomic Pathway scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5) for the period 2021–2100. From an initial set of 19 bioclimatic variables, mean annual temperature (Bio1) and annual precipitation (Bio12) were selected for modeling after applying Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) analysis to mitigate multicollinearity. Four distinct modeling techniques were evaluated: Generalized Linear Model (GLM), Generalized Additive Model (GAM), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Random Forest (RF). Model performance was quantified using the coefficient of determination (R²) and the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). Results and Discussion: The Random Forest (RF) algorithm demonstrated superior performance in simulating vegetation parameters compared to other modeling approaches. Spatiotemporal analysis of vegetation dynamics across the three study regions revealed distinct responses to the projected climate scenarios over four future periods (2021–2040, 2041–2060, 2061–2080, 2081–2100). Marjan Region (Resilient Profile): This region exhibited significant resilience and adaptive capacity. The current vegetation cover (36.18%) showed consistent increases under most scenarios, particularly under the high-emission SSP5-8.5 scenario in the 2081–2100 period, reaching 39.04%. This positive trend suggests the Marjan ecosystem currently operates below its temperature optimum, where moderate warming may enhance physiological processes and extend the growing season. The region likely benefits from "biodiversity insurance effects," where functional redundancy within species pools enables compensation and maintains ecosystem stability under climatic stress. Sangsefid Region (Vulnerable Profile): Identified as the most vulnerable area despite having the highest initial vegetation cover (46.15%), this region experienced substantial declines across most scenarios. The most pronounced reduction occurred during the 2041–2060 period under SSP2-4.5, decreasing to 42.37%. This high sensitivity originates from a strong dependence on snowmelt-derived moisture, making it particularly susceptible to shifts in precipitation patterns and earlier spring melt. Vegetation loss initiates a destructive feedback loop: reduced cover diminishes soil organic matter and water retention capacity, which intensifies water stress and leads to further degradation—a manifestation of the "dryland amplification feedback" mechanism recognized by the IPCC. Qomishlu Region (Dynamic/Adaptive Profile): This region displayed complex, non-linear dynamics with intermediate vulnerability. An initial stable cover (31.07%) gradually transitioned to moderate declines, particularly under high-emission scenarios in mid-century periods. However, it demonstrated notable ecological resilience, with partial recovery observed in the final period (reaching 31.29% under SSP5-8.5). This pattern illustrates the concept of "ecological memory" and potential adaptation, where natural selection may favor genotypes better suited to new conditions, leading to a gradual shift in community composition. For resistant regions (e.g., Marjan), a conservative management strategy is recommended, focusing on continuous monitoring and preventing additional anthropogenic pressures, particularly overgrazing. Managers must avoid "ecological complacency"—a false sense of security derived from apparent short-term stability that could lead to the neglect of essential long-term adaptation investments. For vulnerable regions (e.g., Sangsefid), active, interventionist management is urgently required. Strategies should prioritize climate-resilient restoration using drought-tolerant native species, implementation of runoff harvesting systems, and precise, controlled grazing regimes. The overarching goal should be "threshold-based management" to prevent the ecosystem from crossing irreversible tipping points. For dynamic regions (e.g., Qomishlu), an adaptive and flexible management framework is essential. This approach necessitates developing early-warning systems to detect indicators of declining resilience and implementing preventive measures proactively, before critical thresholds are reached. At a macro level, integrating these ecological forecasts into national and regional land-use planning is crucial. Aligning rangeland management strategies with international commitments, such as the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and the Paris Agreement, can facilitate access to necessary financial mechanisms and technical resources for large-scale implementation. General Conclusion: This research demonstrates that climate change will exert diverse and complex impacts on vegetation cover across dry and semi-arid rangelands. The findings confirm that ecosystem responses are not uniform but are instead mediated by site-specific ecological characteristics. The Marjan region exhibited patterns of ecological resistance, with positive adaptation and increased vegetation cover under future scenarios. In contrast, the Sangsefid region showed high vulnerability, marked by a gradual decline in cover. The Qomishlu region demonstrated ecological resilience through dynamic, non-linear behavior and partial recovery. From a management perspective, the study underscores the critical need for region-specific, adaptive strategies. Conservative management is recommended for resistant areas, focused on monitoring and preventing additional stressors. For vulnerable areas, active and interventionist management is imperative to mitigate degradation and avoid tipping points. For dynamic areas, flexible and adaptive management is essential to navigate non-linear changes and support natural resilience processes. هدف این پژوهش، ارزیابی کمی اثرات سناریوهای مختلف تغییر اقلیم بر پوشش گیاهی مراتع خشیک و نیمه‌خشک در استان‌های چهارمحال و بختیاری و اصفهان بود. داده‌های اقلیمی آینده تحت چهار سناریوی انتشار مختلف SSP1-2.6، SSP2-4.5، SSP3-7.0 و SSP5-8.5 و با استفاده از مدل MRI-ESM2-0 استخراج گردید. پس از نمونه‌برداری میدانی و اندازه‌گیری شاخص‌های پوشش گیاهی، روابط بین متغیرهای اقلیمی (میانگین دمای سالانه و بارش سالانه) و پوشش گیاهی با به‌کارگیری چهار الگوریتم مختلف شامل جنگل تصادفی، مدل تعمیم‌یافتۀ افزایشی، مدل خطی تعمیم‌یافته و ماشین بردار پشتیبان مدل‌سازی شد. ارزیابی دقت مدل‌ها نشان داد که الگوریتم جنگل تصادفی با داشتن بالاترین ضریب و کمترین خطای مربعات میانگین ریشه، بهترین عملکرد را در شبیه‌سازی پوشش گیاهی دارد. نتایج حاصل از شبیه‌سازی‌های انجام‌شده برای بازۀ زمانی ۲۰۲۱-۲۱۰۰، الگوهای مکانی-زمانی کاملاً متمایزی از تغییرات پوشش گیاهی را در سه منطقۀ مطالعاتی (مرجن، قمیشلو و سنگ‌سفید) آشکار ساخت. منطقۀ مرجن با افزایش نسبی پوشش گیاهی در بلندمدت، سازگاری و مقاومت بالایی از خود نشان داد. درمقابل، منطقۀ سنگ‌سفید با کاهش تدریجی و قابل توجه پوشش گیاهی، به‌عنوان آسیب‌پذیرترین منطقه شناسایی شد. منطقۀ قمیشلو نیز رفتاری پویا و غیرخطی از خود بروز داد که حاکی از تاب‌آوری اکولوژیک نسبی این منطقه بود.

https://deej.kashanu.ac.ir/article_115310_5eb1e77bee2b9d478208ae013fe36a2d.pdf

دانشگاه کاشان مهندسی اکوسیستم بیابان 2538-6336 14 49 2026 02 20 A Land Use Planning Analysis of Ecotourism-Suitable Zones Based on Sand Spa in in the East of Isfahan Province تحلیل آمایشی پهنه‌های مستعد طبیعت‌گردی مبتنی‌بر اسپای ماسه در شرق استان اصفهان 71 92 115333 ‎10.22052/deej.2026.257983.1127 FA پیمان قضاوی دانش‌آموخته کارشناسی ارشد طبیعت‌گردی-اکوتوریسم، گروه جغرافیا و گردشگری، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و علوم زمین، دانشگاه کاشان، کاشان، ایران سید حجت موسوی دانشیار گروه جغرافیا و گردشگری، دانشکده منابع طبیعی و علوم زمین، دانشگاه کاشان، کاشان، ایران Journal Article 2025 12 16 Introduction Ecotourism is a form of tourism founded on principles of environmental respect and conservation. Its primary objective is to enable responsible engagement with natural areas, minimizing ecological harm while often contributing to preservation and restoration efforts. A core dimension of ecotourism involves travel to natural settings for health and wellness purposes. Health tourism, in this context, encompasses any travel undertaken to enhance personal well-being, specifically emphasizing the therapeutic and restorative utilization of natural environments. This approach is inherently aligned with the goals of ecological and economic sustainability. In the contemporary era, the pressures and adverse effects associated with modern lifestyles have intensified the need to integrate health-focused activities within natural settings. Consequently, health-oriented tourism segments are expanding more rapidly than many other sectors of the global tourism industry. Both governmental bodies and private institutions are increasingly prioritizing the development of health tourism as a distinct market segment and a valuable supplement to public health services. Effective management and development of health tourism must begin with a comprehensive assessment of a region's inherent capabilities, constraints, strengths, and unique attractions. Spatial planning provides a critical foundation for this process by identifying and allocating suitable land uses, thereby facilitating the optimal and sustainable utilization of natural and cultural resources. Unplanned or excessive use of natural areas, without due regard for their ecological carrying capacity, inevitably leads to environmental degradation, inefficient capital investment, and ultimately, unsustainable development. Therefore, this research represents a step toward systematic land-use planning for areas suitable for nature-based tourism, with a specific focus on health tourism. Its central aim is to identify and leverage natural assets—particularly the potential of sand therapy spas—to inform sustainable development strategies. Methodology This study adopts an applied research design, employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates library research, field surveys, and spatial data analysis within the ArcGIS and Google Earth environments. The methodological procedure was structured into six sequential stages: Through a review of analogous studies focused on nature-based tourism and spatial analysis, the key criteria and indicators relevant to developing sand therapy spas were identified. This foundational step is essential, as the transformation of sandy areas into therapeutic sites requires systematic identification, interpretation, preservation planning, and the design of tailored tourism programs and services. The geographical locations of relevant features were determined and catalogued. This included natural attractions, existing tourism facilities, service centers, potential hazard zones, and distinctive landscape elements. Digital spatial layers were generated for each influencing sub-criterion, categorized as either distance or density layers. Density layers were calculated and mapped based on the frequency of point phenomena or the length of linear phenomena per unit area. Distance layers were derived using Euclidean distance analysis from specified source features. Given that the various input layers possess different measurement units and scales, their integration required standardization onto a uniform, dimensionless scale. Each sub-criterion layer was normalized according to its specific influence within the analytical model, with resulting values ranging from 0 to 1. In this framework, a value closer to 1 indicates a higher level of desirability or suitability. Composite criteria layers were synthesized from their normalized sub-criteria components using a weighted linear combination (mathematical averaging) method. The subsequent integration of these criteria layers produced the final composite map, identifying areas susceptible or suitable for sand therapy spa development. The final composite suitability layer was classified into five distinct zones—from "Very Suitable" to "Very Unsuitable." This classification was informed by an analysis of natural constraints (natural breaks) and validated through a comparison of means test. The resultant zoning map delineates the territorial suitability for establishing sand therapy sites within the study region. Results and discussion The integration of digital indicator layers produced composite maps for each influential criterion. In these layers, higher normalized values (approaching 1) indicate greater desirability for sand therapy spa development. Analysis reveals that the maximum value for the accessibility criterion (0.984) is located in the western part of the region. Similarly, the highest values for tourism service centers (0.927) and tourist attraction centers (0.754) are concentrated in the western and northwestern sectors. For the hazard criterion—where a higher value denotes lower risk—the maximum (0.859) is found in the northern, northwestern, and northeastern zones. Through the weighted synthesis of all criteria layers, a final composite suitability map was generated and classified into five land suitability categories. The "Very Suitable" zone, encompassing 2,250.47 square kilometers, predominates in the western and northwestern regions, constituting approximately 98.2% of the total study area. The "Suitable" class covers 761.96 square kilometers (roughly 74.12% of its referenced sub-region) and is primarily found in the northeastern, southern, and western areas. The "Average" suitability zone spans 135.22 square kilometers (about 64.28% of its sub-region), located in the northwestern and western parts. Conversely, the "Unsuitable" class, covering 904.25 square kilometers (approximately 79.32% of its sub-region), is mainly distributed in the eastern sectors. Finally, the "Very Unsuitable" zone occupies 648.17 square kilometers (around 83.22% of its sub-region), concentrated in the northern and southeastern regions. The results indicate a clear spatial polarization in suitability. The western and northwestern regions emerge as optimal due to their superior accessibility, concentration of tourism services and attractions, and relatively lower hazard levels. This combination designates them as priority areas for strategic development of sand therapy spas. In contrast, the eastern, northern, and southeastern zones, classified as unsuitable or very unsuitable, are limited by poorer infrastructure, accessibility, and/or higher hazard potential. Development in these areas is not recommended without significant prior investment to address these constraints. The extensive area classified as "Very Suitable" (98.2% of the total region) highlights the substantial inherent potential of eastern Isfahan province for sand therapy tourism. However, this finding requires careful interpretation. While indicating high overall capacity, it must be balanced with considerations of ecological carrying capacity and on-the-ground realities to ensure that development is sustainable and avoids environmental degradation or resource overuse. Conclusion The results indicate that areas most suitable for sand therapy spa development are predominantly located within the Maranjab, Khara, Zavareh, Mesr, and Khoor deserts. This spatial pattern is attributed to these zones' favorable accessibility, presence of tourism service centers and attractions, and relatively lower environmental and anthropogenic risks. The classification of these areas as highly suitable is directly linked to the optimal confluence of key indicators, including expansive sandy terrains, established road networks, accommodation facilities, restaurants, and proximity to medical services. Furthermore, the analysis identifies zones with moderate suitability in the northern, central, and eastern parts of the study area. However, these regions currently lack targeted development initiatives. Their potential remains untapped, necessitating deliberate and comprehensive planning to equip them with the essential infrastructure required for sand therapy tourism and to facilitate their integration into the nature tourism circuit. Despite possessing significant sandy landscapes with high potential for nature-based health tourism, eastern Isfahan province remains largely unrecognized as a destination beyond local communities and niche ecotourism enthusiasts. A critical gap exists between the region's inherent potential and its current state of development; essential, specialized facilities for sand spa operations are notably absent, even in areas with a strong foundational potential. Consequently, the output of this study—a detailed spatial suitability map—serves a dual purpose. Primarily, it provides a strategic guide for nature and health tourists, as well as tour operators, to identify viable locations. Secondly, and more significantly, it offers a scientific and evidence-based document for regional managers and policymakers. This document can inform constructive decision-making and guide the implementation of sustainable development strategies to responsibly harness this unique ecotourism potential. در اکوسیستم‌های بیابانی، وجود پهنه‌های ماسه‌ای نقش برجسته‌ای در توسعۀ طبیعت‌گردی دارد. ازاین‌رو تبدیل منابع و دارایی‌های طبیعی به جاذبه‌های گردشگری و همچنین اهمیت حفاظت آن‌ها برای نسل‌های بعدی، الزام تحلیل آمایشی در این پهنه‌ها را دوچندان می‌کند. لذا هدف پژوهش پیش ‌رو تحلیل آمایشی پهنه‌های مستعد طبیعت‌گردی مبتنی‌بر اسپای ماسه‌درمانی در شرق استان اصفهان است. در این خصوص از معیارهای دسترسی، مراکز جذب گردشگر، مراکز خدمات‌رسان، مخاطرات و سیمای سرزمین بهره‌گیری شد که لایه‌های رقومی آن‌ها با استفاده‌ از توابع فاصله و تراکم‌سنجی در نرم‌افزار ArcGIS براساس داده‌ها و نقشه‌های پایه و تصاویر Google Earth تهیه شد. از ترکیب لایه‌های معیارها با روش میانگین‌گیری، لایۀ‌ نهایی نواحی مستعد اسپای ماسه‌درمانی تهیه و براساس شکست‌های طبیعی به پنج پهنه تناسب ارضی طبقه‌بندی شد. نتایج نشان داد طبقۀ بسیار مناسب وسعت 472/2250 کیلومتر مربع معادل 98/2 درصد (نواحی غربی و شمال ‌غربی) و طبقۀ مناسب وسعت 761/9597 کیلومتر مربع معادل 74/12 درصد (نواحی شمال‌ شرقی، جنوب و غربی) از منطقۀ مطالعاتی را به خود اختصاص دادند که مناسب‌ترین پهنه‌های اسپای ماسه‌درمانی به‌ترتیب شامل بخش‌هایی از ماسه‌زارهای ریگ بلند، زواره، دق سرخ و مصر در شهرستان‌های آران‌وبیدگل، اصفهان، اردستان و خوروبیابانک است. این نتایج، سندی علمی برای طبیعت‌گردها و برنامه‌ریزان گردشگری برای تصمیم‌گیری‌های مطلوب برای توسعۀ مناطق مستعد اسپای ماسه‌درمانی در شرق استان اصفهان است.

https://deej.kashanu.ac.ir/article_115333_fdd3a7197e0f073d82f7501a73d3f71e.pdf

دانشگاه کاشان مهندسی اکوسیستم بیابان 2538-6336 14 49 2026 02 20 Identification of temperature hot spots in the Zagros natural habitat based on global standard indicators revealing climate change Identification of temperature hot spots in the Zagros natural habitat based on global standard indicators revealing climate change 93 111 115334 ‎10.22052/deej.2026.258289.1135 FA فاطمه درگاهیان دانشیار موسسه تحقیقات جنگلها و مراتع، ایران، تهران مهدی پورهاشمی استاد موسسه تحقیقات جنگلها و مراتع کشور، ایران، تهران سمیه حیدرنژاد محقق بیابان زدایی، مرکز تحقیقات، آموزش و ترویج کشاورزی ومنابع طبیعی لرستان، پردیس تحقیقات و آموزش کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی بروجرد Journal Article 2026 01 25 One of the most important consequences of climate change is the reduction of forest area. The decrease in the area and the decline of oak forests in the Zagros ecosystem in western Iran, especially in the last two decades, is directly and indirectly affected by the occurrence of climate change, especially the increase in temperature This study investigates climate change impacts on the Zagros oak forest ecosystem in western Iran, focusing on warming trends and their spatial distribution. Using observational data from 34 synoptic stations and the ClimPACT software in R, we analyzed eight temperature indices (SU25, SU30, SU35, TN90p, TX90p, TX50p, WSDI2, WSDI6) standardized by the Expert Team on Climate Risk and Sector-Specific Climate Indices (ET-CRSCI). Results reveal a significant warming trend, with the most pronounced increases in warm temperature indices occurring at the highest latitudes of the northern Zagros and the highest elevations of the southern Zagros. Persistent hotspots were identified in northwestern Fars and southwestern Ilam provinces. Critically, the index representing prolonged warm spells (WSDI6) showed the strongest increase in the southern Zagros, an area coinciding with the highest frequency of wildfires in the past decade. This suggests that persistent heat accelerates ecosystem drying, thereby intensifying fire risk and damage. Identifying these thermal hotspots provides crucial insights for adaptive management and planning, enabling more resilient conservation strategies to mitigate climate change impacts on this vital ecosystem. One of the most important consequences of climate change is the reduction of forest area. The decrease in the area and the decline of oak forests in the Zagros ecosystem in western Iran, especially in the last two decades, is directly and indirectly affected by the occurrence of climate change, especially the increase in temperature This study investigates climate change impacts on the Zagros oak forest ecosystem in western Iran, focusing on warming trends and their spatial distribution. Using observational data from 34 synoptic stations and the ClimPACT software in R, we analyzed eight temperature indices (SU25, SU30, SU35, TN90p, TX90p, TX50p, WSDI2, WSDI6) standardized by the Expert Team on Climate Risk and Sector-Specific Climate Indices (ET-CRSCI). Results reveal a significant warming trend, with the most pronounced increases in warm temperature indices occurring at the highest latitudes of the northern Zagros and the highest elevations of the southern Zagros. Persistent hotspots were identified in northwestern Fars and southwestern Ilam provinces. Critically, the index representing prolonged warm spells (WSDI6) showed the strongest increase in the southern Zagros, an area coinciding with the highest frequency of wildfires in the past decade. This suggests that persistent heat accelerates ecosystem drying, thereby intensifying fire risk and damage. Identifying these thermal hotspots provides crucial insights for adaptive management and planning, enabling more resilient conservation strategies to mitigate climate change impacts on this vital ecosystem.

https://deej.kashanu.ac.ir/article_115334_5a3ac1b2ffd33248a72506fc4fc9b249.pdf