Village and Development

Village and Development

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Watershed Management Measures on Qanat Discharge from the Perspective of Villagers in the Firoozeh Mine of Neishabur

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
A. Dastranj
H. Noor
Assistant Professor, Soil Conservation and Watershed Management Department, Khorasan Razavi Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Mashhhad. Iran.
10.30490/rvt.2025.367318.1634
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Watershed management is a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach to resource utilization and conservation. Involving various stakeholders, including local communities, is crucial for the success of watershed projects. Residents' acceptance of these measures is essential for their effectiveness. This study evaluates the impact of watershed management on qanat water supply, focusing on villagers' perspectives in the Firoozeh Mine area of Neishabur.
Materials and Methods
Descriptive and analytical methods were used, with data collected through a questionnaire using a Likert scale to gauge opinions on the impacts of watershed projects. The study surveyed heads of households in the catchment area of the Firoozeh Neishabur mine. Data was gathered through field observations, interviews, and questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted to assess villagers' attitudes towards watershed measures.
Results and Discussion
Villagers in Madan Firuzeh village identified reduced flood damage as the most significant impact of watershed projects. However, issues such as conflicts with government bodies and other villages were perceived as less effective outcomes. Overall, the project was deemed successful in reducing flood damage and improving economic and social aspects.
Conclusions
The watershed project in Firoozeh Neishabur mine has effectively reduced flood damage and provided economic benefits. However, challenges such as conflicts among villagers and reliance on mining activities remain. The project has limited social impacts but has helped decrease migration by providing employment opportunities through the turquoise mine.
Keywords
Firoozeh Mine, Neishabur, Qanat, Villagers, Watershed Management

Subjects

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