Journal of Natural Environment

Assessing the status of good governance indicators in wetland ecosystems (case study: Zarivar wetland, Marivan county)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.

10.22059/jne.2022.346262.2457

Abstract

Wetland resources are important environmental assets and their management and governance has become a big challenge for developing countries. In this regard, the current research was carried out with the aim of evaluating the state of good governance components in the Zarivar wetland ecosystem, Marivan County, to improve the knowledge of wetland governance, sustainability and preservation of its ecosystem services. This research is a descriptive-analytical type of study that was conducted by survey method. The required data has been collected using library studies and field method with questionnaire tool. The statistical population included 120 experts from institutions related to Zarivar wetland management and members of local environmental associations and organizations, who were selected by the full count method. The content validity of the questions of the research tool was confirmed by subject experts and its reliability was also confirmed by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient. In general, the good governance of the wetland was reported to be weak and inappropriate. The results of the t-test showed that there is a significant difference between the average of two groups of members of governmental and non-governmental institutions in relation to the components of transparency justice and fairness, inclusiveness, integrity, and accountability. Considering the average obtained and the reported significant level, the state of good governance of Zarivar wetland is in a good state in terms of inclusiveness and accountability indicators, but it is not in a favorable state in terms of transparency, capability and capacity, and integrity indicators. Good wetland governance is the successful implementation of all policy, legal and regulatory options that are necessary for the sustainability and development of its ecosystem services. Therefore, the plans, actions and future vision of the wetland should be targeted according to the indicators of good governance.

Keywords

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Journal of Natural Environment
Volume 76, Issue 1
May 2023
Pages 117-131