Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Ph.D Graduate, Department of Agricultural Extension, Communication and Rural Development, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
2
Ph.D. Student, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
3
Department of Hydraulic, Hydro-Environmental Engineering, Water Research Institute, Ministry of Energy, Tehran , Iran
10.30473/ee.2025.73654.2815
Abstract
Wetlands are among the most beautiful, ecologically significant, yet highly fragile ecosystems. In developed countries, governments facilitate wetland conservation by providing educational, research, and recreational opportunities for public engagement. One of the key initiatives in this regard is the establishment of wetland education centers. Although these centers have existed globally for over half a century, their history in Iran is less than two decades old, and their current status significantly lags behind the envisioned objectives. This applied research aims to assess the existing conditions of wetland education centers and propose strategic measures for their development. The statistical population of this study consisted of 42 executive experts from wetland centers across the country, and data was collected through participatory workshops. Initially, a SWOT analysis framework was utilized to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of these centers. Subsequently, the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) was employed to prioritize feasible strategic approaches.The findings indicate that the strategic positioning of the country’s wetland education centers falls within the third quadrant (minimum–maximum area), signifying a critical need for intervention. The most significant recommended strategies include organizing wetland ecotourism tours to introduce and promote these centers, formulating a national education, participation, and awareness-raising framework, and enhancing local community engagement in wetland conservation efforts. The results of this study will help policymakers and decision-makers in the wetlands basin, especially in the Environmental Protection Organization, to gain a complete understanding of the current status of wetland centers and develop a coherent and comprehensive plan at the national level to improve their performance.
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