Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
Department of Rangeland Management, Faculty of Natural Resources, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Iran
Abstract
Rangelands, as one of the most important natural ecosystems, play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of local communities. This study aimed to identify and analyze the barriers to sustainable rangeland management in the Qashqai nomadic communities of Abadeh County. Using a qualitative approach and grounded theory methodology (Strauss and Corbin), data were collected through semi-structured interviews with local stakeholders. Nineteen participants were selected through snowball sampling based on theoretical saturation. Data were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding, resulting in a conceptual model outlining the key obstacles to sustainable rangeland management in Qashqai nomadic communities of Abadeh County. The findings revealed that the main barriers to sustainable rangeland management include causal conditions (increasing pressure on rangelands, structural and systemic problems, and environmental degradation), contextual conditions (ecological and geographical limitations, socioeconomic challenges, and weak infrastructure and management), and intervening factors (external influences, technological and social transformations, crises and dysfunctions, and regional cooperation). Improvement strategies comprised rangeland ecosystem restoration, empowerment and participation of local communities, economic and legal support, sustainable development, and international cooperation. The consequences included ecological improvement, socioeconomic prosperity, reduced pressure on rangelands, increased investment, and pollution mitigation. The results emphasize the necessity of integrating indigenous knowledge with modern technologies and strengthening the participation of nomadic communities in decision-making to achieve sustainable rangeland management. This study offers practical strategies to improve rangeland management and ensure their long-term sustainability in the region.
Keywords
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