Implementation of comprehensive watershed management and sediment control approaches in Anzali wetland protection
Subject Areas : Ecosystem sustainability
mokarram ravanbakhsh
1
,
Maedeh Ghorbanpour
2
,
Keyvan Asadi
3
,
Mohammadreza Rahmanirad
4
1 - Department of Natural Environment, Environmental Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran
2 - PhD graduated in Rangeland Science and Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Mazandaran
3 - Ph.D. in Climatology, Deputy Director of Watershed Management, General Directorate of Natural Resources, Guilan Province
4 - PhD graduated in Rangeland Science and Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Mazandaran
Keywords: Watershed management, Anzali wetland, sediments, erosion,
Abstract :
Wetlands are the foundation of ecosystems and are among the most important and endangered complex ecosystems globally, providing a range of ecological functions and ecosystem services that support human well-being. Anzali wetland, as one of the largest coastal wetlands in Iran, is known for its global importance in terms of biodiversity. Today, the increase in sedimentation caused by various factors such as deforestation, land use change and river damming has reduced the overall water depth of the wetland, and as a result, its ecological balance and health, biodiversity and sustainability have faced a serious challenge. In this article, the effects of sedimentation and its destructive consequences on the Anzali wetland and the taken watershed management measures have been investigated. This article examines the effects of sedimentation and its destructive consequences on Anzali Wetland, as well as the watershed management measures taken. The results of this study indicate that the watershed of Anzali wetland, particularly the upper watershed, is the main source of sediment load to the wetland. Approximately 80% of the total sediment load comes from the upstream watershed. Overgrazing, deforestation, and limited erosion control measures are among the primary causes of erosion. Overgrazing, deforestation and erosion are the main causes of erosion. Although some efforts have been made to control soil erosion by implementing mechanical, biological, and biomechanical plans in mountainous areas to minimize sediment load from the upper basin, many regions remain not modified due to budget constraints. On the other hand, these plans are facing the challenge of a lack of comprehensive stakeholder participation and community involvement in planning and implementation processes. Implementing comprehensive watershed management approaches that strengthen stakeholder collaboration and consider socio-economic factors not only protects this vital ecosystem but also promotes sustainable development and improves the quality of life for communities that depend on its resources.
