Journal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Prediction of Environmental Health by Using Gene Expression and Bayesian Network Techniques in Taleghan WatershedPrediction of Environmental Health by Using Gene Expression and Bayesian Network Techniques in Taleghan Watershed1187683510.22059/jrwm.2018.250908.1221FAPayamEbrahimiuniversity of tehranAliSalajeghehUniversity Of TehranMohsenMohseni SaraviUniversity of TehranArashMalekianUniversity of tehranAmirSadoddinGorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural ResourcesJournal Article20180122One of the important criteria for quality of life is the health of the watershed. Researches in this field show that in Iran, a model for assessing the health of the watershed is not prepared. So, In this study, using the statistical data of 27 years (1990-2016) 5 environmental variables in the Taleghan watershed in the province of Alborz is estimated using gene expression and Bayesian network techniques. By using the gene expression programming and the Bayesian network of each variable, the years from 1991 to 2006 selected as a training data and 2006 to 2014 as test data, and from 2014 to 2016 selected as validation period (predictive accuracy). In comparison, the estimation accuracy of the gene expression and Bayesian network, the mean correlation values of 5 variables are 0.87 and 0.78, respectively. In the case of the gene expression model, the values of the coefficient of determination in the training section were: 0.87 for discharge, sediment, 0.92, precipitation, 89.9, temperature 0.91 and evaporation 0.77, and also in the Bayesian network, the values were 0.73, 0.88, 0.78, 0.71 and 0.81. The amount of gene expression scheduling will have a high power in simulating future values, given the generation of a generation of 200,000 times. The results of this study indicate that the health state of the watershed with a score of 8 in 2016 has advanced cancer status, and according to the results of the model in 2017, it can be in the recurrence of cancer.One of the important criteria for quality of life is the health of the watershed. Researches in this field show that in Iran, a model for assessing the health of the watershed is not prepared. So, In this study, using the statistical data of 27 years (1990-2016) 5 environmental variables in the Taleghan watershed in the province of Alborz is estimated using gene expression and Bayesian network techniques. By using the gene expression programming and the Bayesian network of each variable, the years from 1991 to 2006 selected as a training data and 2006 to 2014 as test data, and from 2014 to 2016 selected as validation period (predictive accuracy). In comparison, the estimation accuracy of the gene expression and Bayesian network, the mean correlation values of 5 variables are 0.87 and 0.78, respectively. In the case of the gene expression model, the values of the coefficient of determination in the training section were: 0.87 for discharge, sediment, 0.92, precipitation, 89.9, temperature 0.91 and evaporation 0.77, and also in the Bayesian network, the values were 0.73, 0.88, 0.78, 0.71 and 0.81. The amount of gene expression scheduling will have a high power in simulating future values, given the generation of a generation of 200,000 times. The results of this study indicate that the health state of the watershed with a score of 8 in 2016 has advanced cancer status, and according to the results of the model in 2017, it can be in the recurrence of cancer.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76835_251fa27aa238c2bc3c7c60c8d3affa4f.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Estimation of Runoff and Sediment Yield Potential Using Rainfall and Hydrological Model in Kozatopraghi WatershedEstimation of Runoff and Sediment Yield Potential Using Rainfall and Hydrological Model in Kozatopraghi Watershed19317672410.22059/jrwm.2020.281780.1385FAAbazarEsmailiuniversity of Mohaghegh Ardabili/Department of agriculture and natural resourceMohammadGolshanWatershed management/Sari Agriculture and Natural Resource UniversityJournal Article20190520Watersheds are a vast area with different conditions that simulation and studying the processes of runoff and sediment production in these area are critical for managing and maintaining resources. The Kozatopraghi watershed with an area of 766 km2 is located in the south and upstream of the Garesou basin, Ardebil province. Between the hydrological models, based on the capabilities of the SWAT model, this model was used to simulate the hydrological processes of the area in sub watershed scale. Also, for a more accurate examination the rainfall simulator was used in the hydrologic response units (HRUs), the obtained results were generalized to the sub watershed scale. The results of SWAT model were assessment with statistical parameters R2, NSE and RMSE. In the calibration and validation periods these coefficients for simulation runoff obtained 0.8-0.74, 0.71-0.69 and 0.32-0.33, respectively, and for simulation sediment yield obtained 0.75-0.66, 0.72-0.64 and 35.27-26.39, respectively. Assessment the obtained results of rainfall simulator showed that Loamy soils, located in 8 HRUs have high effect in sediment yield production. The maximum runoff and sediment yield by rainfall simulator and SWAT model were observed in sub watersheds 13 and 1, that indicating poor and inappropriate conditions in these subwatersheds. Comparing the study methods showed that the SWAT model have better performance than rainfall simulator for simulation runoff. Also, the estimated sediment yield by this model is lower than rainfall simulator that is close to observed values.Watersheds are a vast area with different conditions that simulation and studying the processes of runoff and sediment production in these area are critical for managing and maintaining resources. The Kozatopraghi watershed with an area of 766 km2 is located in the south and upstream of the Garesou basin, Ardebil province. Between the hydrological models, based on the capabilities of the SWAT model, this model was used to simulate the hydrological processes of the area in sub watershed scale. Also, for a more accurate examination the rainfall simulator was used in the hydrologic response units (HRUs), the obtained results were generalized to the sub watershed scale. The results of SWAT model were assessment with statistical parameters R2, NSE and RMSE. In the calibration and validation periods these coefficients for simulation runoff obtained 0.8-0.74, 0.71-0.69 and 0.32-0.33, respectively, and for simulation sediment yield obtained 0.75-0.66, 0.72-0.64 and 35.27-26.39, respectively. Assessment the obtained results of rainfall simulator showed that Loamy soils, located in 8 HRUs have high effect in sediment yield production. The maximum runoff and sediment yield by rainfall simulator and SWAT model were observed in sub watersheds 13 and 1, that indicating poor and inappropriate conditions in these subwatersheds. Comparing the study methods showed that the SWAT model have better performance than rainfall simulator for simulation runoff. Also, the estimated sediment yield by this model is lower than rainfall simulator that is close to observed values.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76724_f56f73d17b7c036c93cd861f6ac8e53b.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Grazing effects on the relationship between vegetation canopy cover and above-ground phytomass with vegetation indices in Sabzekouh region, Chaharmhal va BakhtiariGrazing effects on the relationship between vegetation canopy cover and above-ground phytomass with vegetation indices in Sabzekouh region, Chaharmhal va Bakhtiari33477672510.22059/jrwm.2020.272219.1336FARezaOmidipourPhD of Range and Watershed Management, Faculties of Natural Resource and Earth Science, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord0000-0003-0961-5258AtaollahEbrahimiAssociate Prof. Department of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Faculties of Natural Resources and Earth science, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran.PejmanTahmasebiAssociate Prof. Department of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Faculties of Natural Resources and Earth science, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran.MarzbanFaramarziAssociate Prof. Department of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran.faramarzyJournal Article20190101Vegetation canopy cover (VCC) and Above-Ground Phytomass (AGP) are the most important indicators of rangeland ecosystem’s structure and function, therefore their accurate evaluation and monitoring is vital for ecosystem welfare. Vegetation indices, are essential tools for assessing and monitoring VCC and AGP which have not been addressed under different managerial conditions, so far. In the present study, the effect of long-term grazing and enclosure (26-year) on the relationship between the VCC and AGP with vegetation indices were evaluated in the Sabzkouh protected area of ChaharmahalVaBkhtiari province using Landsat-8 images. VCC and AGP were evaluated in both grazed and enclosed area by 10 plots of 30*30-m in each of which three quadrates of 2×2 square meters were applied (totally 60 quadrates) in the June, 2016. The results indicate significant differences between grazed and enclosed areas in terms of VCC (57% and 46 respectively) and AGP (with 1656 and 1011 kg per hectare, respectively). <br /> The soil adjusted vegetation indices show a more significant prediction of VCC in enclosed and grazed areas (TSAVI1=0.828 and PVI3=0.884, respectively). The PVI2 index showed appropriate results for estimating AGP in both enclosed (R2=0.726) and grazed (R2=0.698) areas. The improved performance of these indies is mainly due to the adjustment of soil effects. Our results suggest that grazing caused a significant effect on the relationship between VCC and AGP with vegetation indices due to feasible changes in vegetation structure or composition. Therefore, using different indices is necessary to study and monitor different rangelands under management strategies.Vegetation canopy cover (VCC) and Above-Ground Phytomass (AGP) are the most important indicators of rangeland ecosystem’s structure and function, therefore their accurate evaluation and monitoring is vital for ecosystem welfare. Vegetation indices, are essential tools for assessing and monitoring VCC and AGP which have not been addressed under different managerial conditions, so far. In the present study, the effect of long-term grazing and enclosure (26-year) on the relationship between the VCC and AGP with vegetation indices were evaluated in the Sabzkouh protected area of ChaharmahalVaBkhtiari province using Landsat-8 images. VCC and AGP were evaluated in both grazed and enclosed area by 10 plots of 30*30-m in each of which three quadrates of 2×2 square meters were applied (totally 60 quadrates) in the June, 2016. The results indicate significant differences between grazed and enclosed areas in terms of VCC (57% and 46 respectively) and AGP (with 1656 and 1011 kg per hectare, respectively). <br /> The soil adjusted vegetation indices show a more significant prediction of VCC in enclosed and grazed areas (TSAVI1=0.828 and PVI3=0.884, respectively). The PVI2 index showed appropriate results for estimating AGP in both enclosed (R2=0.726) and grazed (R2=0.698) areas. The improved performance of these indies is mainly due to the adjustment of soil effects. Our results suggest that grazing caused a significant effect on the relationship between VCC and AGP with vegetation indices due to feasible changes in vegetation structure or composition. Therefore, using different indices is necessary to study and monitor different rangelands under management strategies.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76725_e420db6839172409b0f05a1ba71e40de.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Evaluation of Different Levels of Zeolite and Salicylic Acid on Some Growth Indices of Medicinal Plant (Thymus Daenensis) Under Drought Stress ConditionsEvaluation of Different Levels of Zeolite and Salicylic Acid on Some Growth Indices of Medicinal Plant (Thymus Daenensis) Under Drought Stress Conditions49637672610.22059/jrwm.2018.260579.1276FASaeedehKhaghaniUniversity of TehranHosseinAzarnivandهیات علمیMohammadJafariUniversity of TehranAbdollahMollafilabiDoctorAliTaviliUniversity of TehranJournal Article20180620This experiment was conducted as a split-plot factorial based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in the medicinal plants' farm of Islamic Azad University in 2017. In this experiment, water stress was considered as the main factor in four levels of irrigation including 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% of the plant water requirement in the main plots. In addition, the application of different levels of zeolite (including no application of zeolite, two, four, six tons per hectare), as well as application of salicylic acid at two levels (0.5 and 1 mM) were considered as secondary factors in the form of factorial on subsidiary plots. The results showed that the effect of different levels of water stress on the traits such as plant height, number of lateral branches, plant wet weight, leaf area index, number of flowers in inflorescence was significant at 1% and on plant dry weight was significant at 5%. Salicylic acid application was also significant on some traits such as flower number in inflorescence, leaf area and dry weight at the probability level of 1%, and on plant volume and wet weight at 5% level. In addition, the effect of different levels of zeolite application was significant on plant height, number of lateral branches, wet weight, dry weight, leaf area index, number of flower in inflorescence at 1% level.This experiment was conducted as a split-plot factorial based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in the medicinal plants' farm of Islamic Azad University in 2017. In this experiment, water stress was considered as the main factor in four levels of irrigation including 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% of the plant water requirement in the main plots. In addition, the application of different levels of zeolite (including no application of zeolite, two, four, six tons per hectare), as well as application of salicylic acid at two levels (0.5 and 1 mM) were considered as secondary factors in the form of factorial on subsidiary plots. The results showed that the effect of different levels of water stress on the traits such as plant height, number of lateral branches, plant wet weight, leaf area index, number of flowers in inflorescence was significant at 1% and on plant dry weight was significant at 5%. Salicylic acid application was also significant on some traits such as flower number in inflorescence, leaf area and dry weight at the probability level of 1%, and on plant volume and wet weight at 5% level. In addition, the effect of different levels of zeolite application was significant on plant height, number of lateral branches, wet weight, dry weight, leaf area index, number of flower in inflorescence at 1% level.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76726_82af08dcc1163ae474c719ec4d924002.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Diet Selection and Palatability of Plant Species for Naiini Sheep Grazing in Steppe Rangelands of Meymeh, IsfahanDiet Selection and Palatability of Plant Species for Naiini Sheep Grazing in Steppe Rangelands of Meymeh, Isfahan65747672710.22059/jrwm.2020.295784.1452FAMortezaKhodagholiRangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, AREEO, Tehran00000179696386RaziehSaboohiPhD of Range Management, Isfahan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Isfahan0000-0001-5165-570XMinaBayatRangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension OrganizationJavadMotamediAssociate Professor, Rangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), TehranJournal Article20200201For the experiment, at the beginning of each growing season, an adult Naiini sheep (3-4 years old) was used as representative of the herd and used in annual censuses. Grazing time measurement continued at the beginning of the growing season and during the four growth stages. Census time at each growth stage was performed one hour after daily grazing, and in three continuous 20-min periods (repeat experiment). Considering the time of concentration of the animal and the tendency of the animal to different species, the palatability class of each plant species was determined. The results showed that during all the years under study, grazing concentration of Naiini sheep on annual species (Grass and Forbes), litter, Stachys inflata, Artemisia sieberi, Stipa arabica, Noaea mucronata and Hertia angustifolia was observed. Based on the results, annual and litter species were classified as Class І species, Stachys inflata as Class II plant and Artemisia sieberi, Stipa arabica, Noaea mucronata and Hertia angustifolia as Class Ш species. <br /> The results showed that the palatability of the species was not the same as the change in plant composition during the growing season. Therefore, it is incorrect to consider the same palatability class for each species at different stages of development, and it is necessary to pay more attention to the description of pasture design services when calculating grazing capacity.For the experiment, at the beginning of each growing season, an adult Naiini sheep (3-4 years old) was used as representative of the herd and used in annual censuses. Grazing time measurement continued at the beginning of the growing season and during the four growth stages. Census time at each growth stage was performed one hour after daily grazing, and in three continuous 20-min periods (repeat experiment). Considering the time of concentration of the animal and the tendency of the animal to different species, the palatability class of each plant species was determined. The results showed that during all the years under study, grazing concentration of Naiini sheep on annual species (Grass and Forbes), litter, Stachys inflata, Artemisia sieberi, Stipa arabica, Noaea mucronata and Hertia angustifolia was observed. Based on the results, annual and litter species were classified as Class І species, Stachys inflata as Class II plant and Artemisia sieberi, Stipa arabica, Noaea mucronata and Hertia angustifolia as Class Ш species. <br /> The results showed that the palatability of the species was not the same as the change in plant composition during the growing season. Therefore, it is incorrect to consider the same palatability class for each species at different stages of development, and it is necessary to pay more attention to the description of pasture design services when calculating grazing capacity.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76727_2ff74ef90251dd5d8d6bc23f46c169e4.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Evaluation of Honey Bee Husbandry Suitability in Sarab-Sefid Borujerd by Geographical Information SystemEvaluation of Honey Bee Husbandry Suitability in Sarab-Sefid Borujerd by Geographical Information System75887672810.22059/jrwm.2020.279948.1375FAGolnazKheradmandEducated MSc. Student Department of Range Management, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, IranAliAriapourAssociate Prof. Department of Range Management, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, Iran0000-0001-6783-0680HamidrezaMehrabiAsistant Prof. Department of Range Management, Islamic Azad University, Boroujerd Branch, IranJournal Article20190508Honey bee husbandry is one of the multipurpose uses of rangelands that it affects by biotic and abiotic factors that investigated in this study for Sarab-Sefid rangeland of Borujerd County. To evaluation of honey bee husbandry suitability used FAO model include four main model plant cover, weather, topography and distance. Four categories used such as S1 (Suitable), S2 (medium Suitable), S3 (low Suitable) and N (None Suitable). Results show that there is no suitable in April for honey bee husbandry in any part of the area. Also according to mountainous and cold weather in spring and summer subsequently short time to plants growth and according to more grasses families of plants whole area was not in class S1. Honey bee husbandry model in April-May it falls in S3 and N classes with 1152.67 (19.66%) and 4711.76 (80.43%) hec respectively. In May-June months 883.42 (15.06%), 2002.86 (34.15%) and 2978.15 (50.79%) hec falls in S2, S3 and N classes respectively. This result was obtained for June-July so that 799.81 (15.06%), 2437.79 41.57%) and 2626.81 (43.37%) hec falls in S2, S3 and N classes respectively and for July-August-September 799.81 (15.06%) hec in S2 class, 2554.54 (43.56%) hec in S3 and 2509.65 (41.38%) hec fall in N class. Consequently, best time to honey bee husbandry is May to September months.Honey bee husbandry is one of the multipurpose uses of rangelands that it affects by biotic and abiotic factors that investigated in this study for Sarab-Sefid rangeland of Borujerd County. To evaluation of honey bee husbandry suitability used FAO model include four main model plant cover, weather, topography and distance. Four categories used such as S1 (Suitable), S2 (medium Suitable), S3 (low Suitable) and N (None Suitable). Results show that there is no suitable in April for honey bee husbandry in any part of the area. Also according to mountainous and cold weather in spring and summer subsequently short time to plants growth and according to more grasses families of plants whole area was not in class S1. Honey bee husbandry model in April-May it falls in S3 and N classes with 1152.67 (19.66%) and 4711.76 (80.43%) hec respectively. In May-June months 883.42 (15.06%), 2002.86 (34.15%) and 2978.15 (50.79%) hec falls in S2, S3 and N classes respectively. This result was obtained for June-July so that 799.81 (15.06%), 2437.79 41.57%) and 2626.81 (43.37%) hec falls in S2, S3 and N classes respectively and for July-August-September 799.81 (15.06%) hec in S2 class, 2554.54 (43.56%) hec in S3 and 2509.65 (41.38%) hec fall in N class. Consequently, best time to honey bee husbandry is May to September months.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76728_951d3e035309cb77efb95c246459d4f0.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Water retention function of rangeland ecosystems, economic valuation of change in rangeland conditions (Case Study: Arnaveh Basin, North Khorasan Province)Water retention function of rangeland ecosystems, economic valuation of change in rangeland conditions (Case Study: Arnaveh Basin, North Khorasan Province)891037672910.22059/jrwm.2020.255810.1251FAEmadZakeriHamidrezaKarimzadehFaculty of Natural Resources,Department of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Isfahan University of TecnologySeyed AlirezaMousaviFaculty of Natural Resources, Isfahan /University of Technology /]Isfahan/IranMohammadGhorbaniDepartment of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of MashhadJournal Article20180415Rangelands provide a diverse array of vital services that pertain to human life. But market failure to consider the value of these ecosystem services has disturbed provision of many ecosystem services. In this study the economic value of water conservation functions by Arnaveh basin located in northwestern Iran was estimated. Rainfall-runoff simulation was carried out by using Curve Number (CN) method. Also by means of Replacement Cost method the value of the hydrological services were quantified. The role of vegetation cover in water conservation was estimated by comparing the surface runoff under current condition and uncovered soil conditions. Moreover the role of rangelands on water retention and surface runoff reduction by devising three more hypothetical scenarios and then the effects of land use changes associated with these scenarios on rainfall-runoff rate of the region were compared. Results showed that the role of rangelands vegetation cover in water conservation and surface runoff reduction was 7.19×106 m3, with the economic value of 123×109 IRR. Also, the results of a comparing between 3 hypothetical scenarios and current conditions showed that, under the case of scenario one which assumes that the entire of rangelands area is becoming to rain-fed farming, total outflow would be in the maximum amount and the most negative effects will accrue. Also the scenarios of improvement of vegetation cover to 25-50 percent has the most positive effects (1.95×106 m3 yr-1 decrease) on water retention. The results of this study could help decision-makers in selecting appropriate and economically feasible development strategies.Rangelands provide a diverse array of vital services that pertain to human life. But market failure to consider the value of these ecosystem services has disturbed provision of many ecosystem services. In this study the economic value of water conservation functions by Arnaveh basin located in northwestern Iran was estimated. Rainfall-runoff simulation was carried out by using Curve Number (CN) method. Also by means of Replacement Cost method the value of the hydrological services were quantified. The role of vegetation cover in water conservation was estimated by comparing the surface runoff under current condition and uncovered soil conditions. Moreover the role of rangelands on water retention and surface runoff reduction by devising three more hypothetical scenarios and then the effects of land use changes associated with these scenarios on rainfall-runoff rate of the region were compared. Results showed that the role of rangelands vegetation cover in water conservation and surface runoff reduction was 7.19×106 m3, with the economic value of 123×109 IRR. Also, the results of a comparing between 3 hypothetical scenarios and current conditions showed that, under the case of scenario one which assumes that the entire of rangelands area is becoming to rain-fed farming, total outflow would be in the maximum amount and the most negative effects will accrue. Also the scenarios of improvement of vegetation cover to 25-50 percent has the most positive effects (1.95×106 m3 yr-1 decrease) on water retention. The results of this study could help decision-makers in selecting appropriate and economically feasible development strategies.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76729_c258dae2b76a3ff6a791e49670c1c45b.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Application of Geomorphometric attributes in digital soil mapping by using of machine learning and fuzzy logic approachesApplication of Geomorphometric attributes in digital soil mapping by using of machine learning and fuzzy logic approaches1051247673010.22059/jrwm.2020.288580.1418FAAsgharRahmaniSoil science department,Faculty of agriculture,university of tehran,karaj,Iran.FereydoonSarmadianSoil Science Department, faculty of agriculture, University of TehranSayed RohollaMousaviSoil Science Department, faculty of agriculture, University of TehranSeyyed ErfanKhamoshiSoil science department,faculty of agriculture, university of tehran.Journal Article20190907Conventional soil mapping is related to High density sampling, affected by scale and expert knowledge So using of new data mining methods in digital soil properties mapping was the main aim of this study for resolving conventional soil survey problems. In this research, 62 surface soil samples based on regular grid and expert knowledge opinion were selected after that soil organic carbon(SOC), clay content and CaCO3 were determined in some part of Dryland Kuhin region with area of 372 ha. Data sets were divided to two 80%(calibration) and 20%(validation), respectively. From digital elevation model with 10-meter spatial resolution were derived 19 geomorphometric attribute in SAGA GIS software. Three geomorphometric covariate included TPI, TRI, DEM and landform map unit were chosen PCA and expert knowledge. RStudio and SoLIM Solution software were used for random forest (RF) and fuzzy logic modelling, respectively. The RF modelling results show that for SOC, clay and CaCO3 based on determination coefficient (R2) had 0.63,0.75,0.63 and RMSE 0.17,7.5,5.77 percentage and for SoLIM method revealed that R2 0.47,0.42,0.42 and RMSE 0.2,8.08,4.68 percentage, respectively. Generally, the RF model with creating nonlinear relationship among soil properties and environmental covariate can predicted digital map with appropriate precision for management and sustainable land utilizationConventional soil mapping is related to High density sampling, affected by scale and expert knowledge So using of new data mining methods in digital soil properties mapping was the main aim of this study for resolving conventional soil survey problems. In this research, 62 surface soil samples based on regular grid and expert knowledge opinion were selected after that soil organic carbon(SOC), clay content and CaCO3 were determined in some part of Dryland Kuhin region with area of 372 ha. Data sets were divided to two 80%(calibration) and 20%(validation), respectively. From digital elevation model with 10-meter spatial resolution were derived 19 geomorphometric attribute in SAGA GIS software. Three geomorphometric covariate included TPI, TRI, DEM and landform map unit were chosen PCA and expert knowledge. RStudio and SoLIM Solution software were used for random forest (RF) and fuzzy logic modelling, respectively. The RF modelling results show that for SOC, clay and CaCO3 based on determination coefficient (R2) had 0.63,0.75,0.63 and RMSE 0.17,7.5,5.77 percentage and for SoLIM method revealed that R2 0.47,0.42,0.42 and RMSE 0.2,8.08,4.68 percentage, respectively. Generally, the RF model with creating nonlinear relationship among soil properties and environmental covariate can predicted digital map with appropriate precision for management and sustainable land utilizationhttps://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76730_8625ff9d29dfc46a1bf924d958bdfc40.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521vulnerability assessment of Gilangharb karstic aquifer using EPIK and KDI methods.vulnerability assessment of Gilangharb karstic aquifer using EPIK and KDI methods.1251377673110.22059/jrwm.2020.294605.1446FAMehrnooshGhadimiSasanZangenetabarphd studentJournal Article20191223One important approach in the management of karst water resources is mapping of karstic aquifers. Vulnerability mapping enables identification of the groundwater resources that are subjected to contamination. The Gilangharb karst aquifer as part of the folded Zagros zone feeds the Gilangharb karstic aquifer. Field visits and examination of chemical properties of the Gilangharb spring all confirm the karstic nature of the study area. In this study, in order to evaluate the vulnerability of the Gilangharb karstic aquifer, the EPIK method consisting of four layers of E (epikarst), P (protective coating), I (penetration) and K (karst network) and also the KDI method based on land use were employed. The former method is one of the inherent vulnerability methods developed especially for the karst areas based on different weight and ranking parameters. After executing the model and preparing the vulnerability map, the EPIK index was calculated between 12 and 26. The spatial distribution of the final vulnerability map classes from the EPIK model shows that 14.24, 14.56, 47.17 and 24.03% of the study area, is located in the low, medium, high and very high vulnerability zones, respectively. According to this map, about 71% of the study area shows high and very high vulnerability indicating high vulnerability of this aquifer. According to the results of the KDI method, 7.54%, 9.49%, 2.9%, 77.89% and 2.18% of the study area had high, medium, low, very low and intact, respectively that shows low vulnerability of the Gilangharb karstic aquifer.One important approach in the management of karst water resources is mapping of karstic aquifers. Vulnerability mapping enables identification of the groundwater resources that are subjected to contamination. The Gilangharb karst aquifer as part of the folded Zagros zone feeds the Gilangharb karstic aquifer. Field visits and examination of chemical properties of the Gilangharb spring all confirm the karstic nature of the study area. In this study, in order to evaluate the vulnerability of the Gilangharb karstic aquifer, the EPIK method consisting of four layers of E (epikarst), P (protective coating), I (penetration) and K (karst network) and also the KDI method based on land use were employed. The former method is one of the inherent vulnerability methods developed especially for the karst areas based on different weight and ranking parameters. After executing the model and preparing the vulnerability map, the EPIK index was calculated between 12 and 26. The spatial distribution of the final vulnerability map classes from the EPIK model shows that 14.24, 14.56, 47.17 and 24.03% of the study area, is located in the low, medium, high and very high vulnerability zones, respectively. According to this map, about 71% of the study area shows high and very high vulnerability indicating high vulnerability of this aquifer. According to the results of the KDI method, 7.54%, 9.49%, 2.9%, 77.89% and 2.18% of the study area had high, medium, low, very low and intact, respectively that shows low vulnerability of the Gilangharb karstic aquifer.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76731_3680d699ae84d697c7ae9ad8bf0861c9.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Investigation of the efficiency of the stability index model in Different hydrological conditionsInvestigation of the efficiency of the stability index model in Different hydrological conditions1391487673210.22059/jrwm.2020.121511.855FAZakiehSafarpourJalilFarzadmehrAliGolkarianMahdiBashiriJournal Article20150411Landslide is one of significant mass movement which causes normous annual human and sesmic region. Therefore, finding hazardous areas for planning and management of them is necessary. So, in this reasearch, occurred landslide in watershed region of bidvaz dam which has area of 161 square kilometers and 125 landsliding points are surveyed in different hydrological conditions by index model of slope stability. For specified slopes, graiding test was done and geotechnical parameters were attained. Then, by using Arc view and Arc GIS packages and calibrating parameters in SINMAP and incorporating the geotechnical and hydrological parameters with digital elevation model, SINMAP was conducted. After that, validation was done in two common and high hydrological conditions including rainfalls with a return period of 2-10 years and 20-50 years Respectively. Results showed that the performance of model in simulation of landslides is not appropriate at common hydrological cases. However, increase in hudrological humidity condition, performance of model improves. In calibration and validation, prediction of model increase 21 % and 26 %, respectively. Therefore, utilizing SINMAP model in high hydrological humidity conditions can be useful for choosing dangerous ways according to the landslide map.Landslide is one of significant mass movement which causes normous annual human and sesmic region. Therefore, finding hazardous areas for planning and management of them is necessary. So, in this reasearch, occurred landslide in watershed region of bidvaz dam which has area of 161 square kilometers and 125 landsliding points are surveyed in different hydrological conditions by index model of slope stability. For specified slopes, graiding test was done and geotechnical parameters were attained. Then, by using Arc view and Arc GIS packages and calibrating parameters in SINMAP and incorporating the geotechnical and hydrological parameters with digital elevation model, SINMAP was conducted. After that, validation was done in two common and high hydrological conditions including rainfalls with a return period of 2-10 years and 20-50 years Respectively. Results showed that the performance of model in simulation of landslides is not appropriate at common hydrological cases. However, increase in hudrological humidity condition, performance of model improves. In calibration and validation, prediction of model increase 21 % and 26 %, respectively. Therefore, utilizing SINMAP model in high hydrological humidity conditions can be useful for choosing dangerous ways according to the landslide map.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76732_8a525f1f5bf73f4f3dd1d17ef5c00bd4.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Study the effective environmental factors on distribution of ecological plant groups in altitude gradient of Moghan-Sabalan rangelandsStudy the effective environmental factors on distribution of ecological plant groups in altitude gradient of Moghan-Sabalan rangelands1491667673310.22059/jrwm.2020.277092.1360FASaharGhafarinull0000-0002-9686-801XArdavanGhorbaniUniversity of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran.0000-0001-7201-1225MehdiMoamerinull0000-0003-2917-4736RaoofMostafazadehPh.D in Watershed Management Engineering0000-0002-0401-0260MahmoodBidar LordUniversity of MOhaghegh ArdabiliAzadKakemamishafarod companyJournal Article20190301The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of topographic, edaphic, climatic and landscape metrices on the distribution of plant communities in the altitude gradient of Moghan-Sabalan rangelands in Ardebil province. To determine and study the ecological species groups, 28 sites and 840 one square meter sampling plots were samples by the random systematic method. To determine soil factors, soil samples were collected from each site from 0–15 and 15-30 cm depth and physicochemical parameters were measured at the lab. Using TWINSPAN, vegetation of the study area was classified and then PCA and CCA were used to investigate the relationship between species and environmental factors. According to TWINSPAN results, four ecological groups were identified. The first ecological group is located in the opposite direction of elevation, slope, rainfall and patch area gradients, and the same direction with pH, clay and dispersible clay (the first depth), bulk density, edge density and patch area (coefficient of variation). The second and third ecological groups are located in the interfaces of the first and fourth ecological groups in terms of plant composition and environmental conditions. These two groups prefer the middle elevations. The fourth ecological group at the end of the elevation, rainfall, slope, patch area and inverse direction of clay and dispersible clay (the first depth) and typically prefer high altitudes and light texture soils.The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of topographic, edaphic, climatic and landscape metrices on the distribution of plant communities in the altitude gradient of Moghan-Sabalan rangelands in Ardebil province. To determine and study the ecological species groups, 28 sites and 840 one square meter sampling plots were samples by the random systematic method. To determine soil factors, soil samples were collected from each site from 0–15 and 15-30 cm depth and physicochemical parameters were measured at the lab. Using TWINSPAN, vegetation of the study area was classified and then PCA and CCA were used to investigate the relationship between species and environmental factors. According to TWINSPAN results, four ecological groups were identified. The first ecological group is located in the opposite direction of elevation, slope, rainfall and patch area gradients, and the same direction with pH, clay and dispersible clay (the first depth), bulk density, edge density and patch area (coefficient of variation). The second and third ecological groups are located in the interfaces of the first and fourth ecological groups in terms of plant composition and environmental conditions. These two groups prefer the middle elevations. The fourth ecological group at the end of the elevation, rainfall, slope, patch area and inverse direction of clay and dispersible clay (the first depth) and typically prefer high altitudes and light texture soils.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76733_b14963403ecee2cef0771f378d71465a.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Investigating condition of karstic lineaments in watersheds leading to Persian GulfInvestigating condition of karstic lineaments in watersheds leading to Persian Gulf1671817673410.22059/jrwm.2018.254577.1242FAMohsenFarzinUniversity of Yasouj0000-0002-6295-0701AliakbarNazari SamaniUniversity of TehranSaeidehMenbariM.Sc in Environment and Natural Resources, International Desert Research Center, Tehran.SadatFeizniaUniversity of TehranGholamabbasKazemiHydro-geologist, Private Consultant, Unit 7, Blook 45, Amir Abad, AbadanJournal Article20180314This research tries to show the role and importance of karst formations in the infiltration of surface flows and recharge of groundwater resources in the region by determining the lineaments of geological formations in watersheds leading to the Persian Gulf and explaining the relative contribution of each formation. For this purpose, The closest sub-basins to the Persian Gulf from the four basins of the rivers including Mond, Helleh, Kol-Mehran and Zohreh, to extract the lineaments, draw rose diagram and analyze them using ENVI® 5.3 software, PCI Geomatica, GIS10.3.1 and Rock works 2016 was selected. Initially, the frequency, density, intersection, direction, size and intensity of the lineaments in the formations of the region were determined. Then, by explaining and defining the lineament index, the importance and impact of each formation in the potential recharge of groundwater resources were determined. The results show that the highest percentage of frequency, intersection percentage and length of lineament are attributed to Asmari-Jahrom Formation and the highest percentage of Lineament intensity to Ilam-Sarvak Formation; the numerical value of the lineament intensity in the karst formations is three times as non-karstic formations. In general, the investigation of the condition of the lineament shows that the lineaments are basically created in the karst formations, so that the numerical value of the lineament index in the karst formations is 72.7, while the value in the non-karstic formations is 2.3. Furthermore, orientation of lineaments according to their frequency and length, in the whole range of study,This research tries to show the role and importance of karst formations in the infiltration of surface flows and recharge of groundwater resources in the region by determining the lineaments of geological formations in watersheds leading to the Persian Gulf and explaining the relative contribution of each formation. For this purpose, The closest sub-basins to the Persian Gulf from the four basins of the rivers including Mond, Helleh, Kol-Mehran and Zohreh, to extract the lineaments, draw rose diagram and analyze them using ENVI® 5.3 software, PCI Geomatica, GIS10.3.1 and Rock works 2016 was selected. Initially, the frequency, density, intersection, direction, size and intensity of the lineaments in the formations of the region were determined. Then, by explaining and defining the lineament index, the importance and impact of each formation in the potential recharge of groundwater resources were determined. The results show that the highest percentage of frequency, intersection percentage and length of lineament are attributed to Asmari-Jahrom Formation and the highest percentage of Lineament intensity to Ilam-Sarvak Formation; the numerical value of the lineament intensity in the karst formations is three times as non-karstic formations. In general, the investigation of the condition of the lineament shows that the lineaments are basically created in the karst formations, so that the numerical value of the lineament index in the karst formations is 72.7, while the value in the non-karstic formations is 2.3. Furthermore, orientation of lineaments according to their frequency and length, in the whole range of study,https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76734_cda7219361d21f465afd406d675c9ef6.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Evaluation of the Soil Sustainability Indices in Desert Areas
(Case study: Rangeland and Agriculture fields of Semnan)Evaluation of the Soil Sustainability Indices in Desert Areas
(Case study: Rangeland and Agriculture fields of Semnan)1831987673510.22059/jrwm.2020.275953.1353FAKouroshKamaliPhD candidate - Tehran universityGholamrezaZehtabianProfessor, Natural Resources Faculty, University of TehranTAYYEBEHMESBAHZADEHAssistant Professor, Natural Resources Faculty, University of TehranHoseinShahab ArkhazlooAssistant Professor, Department of Soil Science University of Mohaghegh ArdabiliMahmoodArabkhedriAssociate Professor, Soil Conservation and Watershed Management Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension OrganizationAlirezaMoghaddam NiaAssociate Professor, Natural Resources Faculty, University of TehranJournal Article20190212The sustainability of soil, especially in fragile ecosystems, is an indispensable indicator of sustainable land management that depends on the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil. In order to study the soil sustainability in Semnan desert region of farms, gardens and rangelands as arenas located on an educational farm with different irrigation administrations, the Sustainability Index (SI) and the Cumulative Ranting (CR9 &CR11) were used. Exploring the crust and sampling of surface and subsurface horizons of selected areas and measuring 12 important and effective characteristics of soil physical properties, the indices were calculated in each area and the effects of different types of land use on soil stability were investigated. The results showed that the SI in the surface layer of arable land due to the impact of cultivation and the positive role of organic matter was above one, and in the rest of the land was less than one which indicating the instability of the soil. According to the CR results, surface and subsurface layers of soil were not found in very stable and stable classes in the studied lands. The CR results also showed that the stability soil in the multi cultivates farm is a better condition, it may be due to its positive role in increasing soil correction factors compared to other lands. Correlation analysis of the indices showed that soil organic carbon, structural index, electrical conductivity, sodium adsorption ratio and mean weight diameter have a direct and more effective impact on soil sustainability.The sustainability of soil, especially in fragile ecosystems, is an indispensable indicator of sustainable land management that depends on the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil. In order to study the soil sustainability in Semnan desert region of farms, gardens and rangelands as arenas located on an educational farm with different irrigation administrations, the Sustainability Index (SI) and the Cumulative Ranting (CR9 &CR11) were used. Exploring the crust and sampling of surface and subsurface horizons of selected areas and measuring 12 important and effective characteristics of soil physical properties, the indices were calculated in each area and the effects of different types of land use on soil stability were investigated. The results showed that the SI in the surface layer of arable land due to the impact of cultivation and the positive role of organic matter was above one, and in the rest of the land was less than one which indicating the instability of the soil. According to the CR results, surface and subsurface layers of soil were not found in very stable and stable classes in the studied lands. The CR results also showed that the stability soil in the multi cultivates farm is a better condition, it may be due to its positive role in increasing soil correction factors compared to other lands. Correlation analysis of the indices showed that soil organic carbon, structural index, electrical conductivity, sodium adsorption ratio and mean weight diameter have a direct and more effective impact on soil sustainability.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76735_96d9729d5538e129af6a3429a660fed8.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521Animal Unit Equivalent and Daily Requirement of Sheep Breeds Grazing in Central Regions of IranAnimal Unit Equivalent and Daily Requirement of Sheep Breeds Grazing in Central Regions of Iran1992087673610.22059/jrwm.2018.100502.707FAJavadMotamedi(torkan)Associate Professor, Rangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran.HosseinArzaniUniversity of TehrannullMehdiGhorbaniJournal Article20140518More than 20 sheep breeds having different body size utilize various rangelands in different climate regions which the conversion coefficient of each breed compared to animal unit must be recognized. For this purpose, two herds were selected from each breed sheep grazing at the central region during 2001-2007. Among selected herds, 30 animals randomly weighted at various age and sex groups and at various grazing seasons. Mean weight of three and four years old sheep was considered as mature weight of each breed. Conversion coefficient of each breed to animal unit (animal unit equivalent) calculated from the ratio of metabolic weight ((live weight)0.75 to animal unit metabolic weight. According to the results, Naeeini breed classified as light body breeds, Zandi, Kermani and Varamini as medium body and Shaal as heavy body breeds. Equivalent animal unit for each breed to animal unit were 0.7, 0.86, 0.9, 0.97, 1.06 and 1.20. based on proposed conversion coefficient and using MAFF proposed equation, daily requirement of each breed at maintenance condition and at grazing condition were as 4.76, 5.85, 6.12, 6.60, 7.21 and 8.16 MJ per day. Results represent that considering to same forage amount as daily requirement of grazing sheep breed in rangelands in order to calculating grazing capacity, without considering their body size is not valid.More than 20 sheep breeds having different body size utilize various rangelands in different climate regions which the conversion coefficient of each breed compared to animal unit must be recognized. For this purpose, two herds were selected from each breed sheep grazing at the central region during 2001-2007. Among selected herds, 30 animals randomly weighted at various age and sex groups and at various grazing seasons. Mean weight of three and four years old sheep was considered as mature weight of each breed. Conversion coefficient of each breed to animal unit (animal unit equivalent) calculated from the ratio of metabolic weight ((live weight)0.75 to animal unit metabolic weight. According to the results, Naeeini breed classified as light body breeds, Zandi, Kermani and Varamini as medium body and Shaal as heavy body breeds. Equivalent animal unit for each breed to animal unit were 0.7, 0.86, 0.9, 0.97, 1.06 and 1.20. based on proposed conversion coefficient and using MAFF proposed equation, daily requirement of each breed at maintenance condition and at grazing condition were as 4.76, 5.85, 6.12, 6.60, 7.21 and 8.16 MJ per day. Results represent that considering to same forage amount as daily requirement of grazing sheep breed in rangelands in order to calculating grazing capacity, without considering their body size is not valid.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76736_bedc7d0e176cf277557423c000ee2816.pdfJournal of Range and Watershed Managment5044-200873120200521products utilization Extreme on the destruction of forests and rangelands (Case Study: Zarinaban district from Dehloran)products utilization Extreme on the destruction of forests and rangelands (Case Study: Zarinaban district from Dehloran)2092267673710.22059/jrwm.2020.265100.1295FAMaryamMalekmirzaeiYazd univercityAliAkbarKarimeianyazd universityJournal Article20180906Exploitation and extraction of sub products of forests and rangelands have long been important to the human beings and today these products have economic, cultural and social roles in countries where there are forests and rangelands ecosystems, so that ignoring and not paying attention to it would bring about irreparable problems for megacities. The purpose of the present study the impact of exploitation on the degradation of forests and rangelands is based on the attitude of the villagers.. Data collection included survey, stratified sampling with proportional allocation. 384 questionnaires were examined. The instrument- questionnaires- were validated by the experts and specialists. The reliability of that has been obtained by Cronbach's alpha (0.76). The statistical population included all the villages in Zarinabad with population around 6379 people, according to Morgan’s table 384 people were selected as statistical sample. The results showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between the harvests and the destruction sub products of forests and rangelands. The results also showed that villagers have a positive attitude toward the formation of public co – operatives (p<0.05). Results showed that the formation of cooperatives for utilization, training and supervision of experts to harvest sub product of forest and rangeland are positive and significant effect in reducing degradation of this resources (p<0.05). The results also showed that there is a significant difference between the utilization of forest and pasture sub-products and income, and poverty reduction from the average.Exploitation and extraction of sub products of forests and rangelands have long been important to the human beings and today these products have economic, cultural and social roles in countries where there are forests and rangelands ecosystems, so that ignoring and not paying attention to it would bring about irreparable problems for megacities. The purpose of the present study the impact of exploitation on the degradation of forests and rangelands is based on the attitude of the villagers.. Data collection included survey, stratified sampling with proportional allocation. 384 questionnaires were examined. The instrument- questionnaires- were validated by the experts and specialists. The reliability of that has been obtained by Cronbach's alpha (0.76). The statistical population included all the villages in Zarinabad with population around 6379 people, according to Morgan’s table 384 people were selected as statistical sample. The results showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between the harvests and the destruction sub products of forests and rangelands. The results also showed that villagers have a positive attitude toward the formation of public co – operatives (p<0.05). Results showed that the formation of cooperatives for utilization, training and supervision of experts to harvest sub product of forest and rangeland are positive and significant effect in reducing degradation of this resources (p<0.05). The results also showed that there is a significant difference between the utilization of forest and pasture sub-products and income, and poverty reduction from the average.https://jrwm.ut.ac.ir/article_76737_505a6b88c8b820c563ff491b61be9cb8.pdf