Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

Abstract Background and Objective: Optimal location selection for agricultural areas refers to the process of identifying the best lands for crop cultivation while considering various factors such as climatic conditions, soil properties, and water resources to enhance productivity and sustainability. This study aims to identify suitable agricultural areas in Ardabil County by utilizing remote sensing data and the Analytical Network Process (ANP).

Methodology: In this research, environmental factors influencing agriculture were first identified and classified into four main categories: topography (elevation, slope, aspect), climate (temperature, precipitation, evapotranspiration), water resources (surface runoff, soil moisture, groundwater reserves, distance from streams), and land cover (soil texture, land use, NDVI). Satellite data from reliable sources such as MODIS, CHIRPS, GRACE, Landsat 8, and TerraClimate were used, and necessary analyses were conducted within the Google Earth Engine environment. The weighting of criteria was carried out using Super Decisions software and ANP analysis. Finally, the optimal agricultural area map was generated using ArcGIS software.

Findings and Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that the western and southeastern regions of Ardabil County have high potential for sustainable agriculture due to favorable climatic conditions, adequate water resources, and suitable topography. In these areas, factors such as elevation, precipitation, soil moisture, and slope have had positive impacts on agricultural growth and productivity. In contrast, the central and eastern regions face more challenges in agriculture due to reduced precipitation, low elevation, and limited water resources. The increase in evapotranspiration and the lack of groundwater reserves highlight the need for modern irrigation methods and the cultivation of drought-resistant crops in these areas.

Abstract Background and Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the geotourism potential of Germi County using Kirchner and Gam models. The study area is located in the geographical range of 38 degrees and 50 minutes to 39 degrees and 10 minutes north latitude from the equator and 47 degrees and 25 minutes to 48 degrees and 12 minutes east longitude from the Greenwich meridian.
Methodology:. In this study, first the geomorphological and geological features of Germi County were identified and analyzed. The necessary data were collected from various sources including geological maps, satellite images, and field studies. Then, using the Kirchner model, the geotourism potential of different areas of the county was evaluated. This model determines the ability to attract tourists using criteria such as geological diversity, accessibility to attractions, and environmental quality. In the next step, the Generalized Linear Analysis (GAM) method was used to analyze and predict the effects of different variables on geotourism capabilities. This method allows for the examination of nonlinear relationships between variables and can help identify factors affecting tourist attraction.
Findings and results: A review of the geotourism indices of the regions shows that the Sholler Waterfall in Darreh Si has the highest score with a score of 35.11 in terms of the GAM model. This region has an incremental value of 33.3, while its conservation value of 68.1 points indicates the need for further protection to preserve this natural resource. The results of the Kirchner model calculations also show that the Shule-Lor waterfall in Darreh-e-S has obtained a total score of (2.190). Also, in this geosite, the scientific value is the highest with (0.650) points and the conservation value is the lowest with (0.225) points.
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that some specific areas of Germi County have high potential to attract tourists, especially the areas around hot springs and mountainous areas with beautiful natural landscapes. This study also examines the challenges and obstacles in the development of geotourism in Germi County and provides suggestions for improving infrastructure, effective advertising, and educating local communities. Finally, it is suggested that the analysis and evaluation of the geotourism capabilities of Germi County be based on artificial intelligence and geotourism occurrence models.

Abstract Background and Aim: This research was conducted in order to estimate the time-space occurrence of frosting of apricot trees in Kurdistan province. The daily data of the minimum temperature in the spring season in the period of 1/1/1980 to 31/12/2018 were used. The trend of minimum temperature changes in the studied stations was estimated using the Mann-Kendall test and the minimum temperature change values ​​using the Sen slope index.
Results and Discussion:  The results of the analysis of the frequency of frostbite showed that Zarineh and Saqez stations, which are part of the northern stations and are located at higher latitudes, have more frequency and continuity of frostbites. Baneh station had the least amount of frost among all the stations. Stations located in the south, east, and west regions are less likely to experience frostbite. The study of the minimum temperature changes that cause frostbite of fruit trees such as apricots showed that the severity of frostbite in Kurdistan province has decreased and the temperature has increased by about one degree centigrade per decade. The result of this process leads to a decrease in the number of frostbite. The evaluation of the minimum temperature changes in April in Kurdistan province showed that the highest rate of increase in minimum temperature in April and as a result the reduction of frostbite was observed in the eastern stations of the province, including Qorveh and Bijar In the month of May, the highest rate of increase in minimum temperature and decrease in frostbite was estimated in the eastern stations of the province, including Qorve 1.084 degrees Celsius and Bijar 0.781 degrees Celsius for each decade and in the month of June, the increase of frost in Baneh and Kamiyaran stations was estimated to be 0.84-1.235 °C per decade, respectively.

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a type of sustainable tourism that emphasizes education and protection of geological and geomorphological attractions in addition to them. Geotourism is one of the important aspects of ecotourism with a responsible and conservation-oriented approach; which emphasizes popularizing earth sciences and the cultural, social, and economic development of the local community. The purpose of this study is to assess the ecotourism potential of natural areas of the tourist village Shtibin is in East Azerbaijan Province.
Methodology: The method of this research is the use of two quantitative models: Kobalikva and Feulet. Kobalikva's method, which emphasizes scientific, educational, economic, conservation and cultural criteria, and Feulet's model, which examines geotourism areas based on four criteria: origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism and accessibility, was also used.
Results and findings: The results showed that based on the evaluation of the Kobalikva model, the Aras tourist region, with the highest score of 4.5, has a high potential among the studied areas. The results also showed that terraced houses, with a total score of 2.5, have the least development among the studied areas. The results of the national park model showed that among the studied areas, Arasbaran forests have the highest score of 10.25. Therefore, it is concluded that, based on the aforementioned models, the Aras and Arasbaran forests have a high potential for tourism development in East Azerbaijan Province. Finally, it is suggested that artificial intelligence tools be used in future studies to assess the ecotourism potential of the regions.

Abstract زمینه و هدف: این پژوهش با استفاده از برونداد مدل‌های CMIP6 و دو سناریو SSP2-4.5 و SSP5-8.5، روند تغییرات و ناهنجاری دمای میانگین بیشینه و کمینه ایران را طی سه دوره زمانی آینده نزدیک، میانه و دور بررسی و پیش‌نگری می‌نماید.
روش شناسی: ابتدا 15 مدل از مجموعه مدل‌های CMIP6 انتخاب و اعتبار سنجی و صحت سنجی مدل‌ها و مقایسه آنها با داده‌های مشاهداتی 71 ایستگاه هواشناسی، با استفاده از شاخص KGE و سایر روش‌های ارزیابی خطا انجام شد. جهت مقیاس‌کاهی و تصحیح خطا از نرم افزار Cmhyd استفاده شد.
نتایج و یافته‌ها: بررسی روند تغییرات دمای میانگین بیشینه و کمینه با استفاده از خروجی مدل NorESM2-MM و آزمون تعیین روند من- کندال، حاکی از روند صعودی تحت هر دو سناریو و در 100 درصد ایستگاه‌ها با سطح اطمینان 99 درصد می‌باشد. انتظار می‌رود دمای میانگین بیشینه تحت دو سناریو SSP2-4.5 و SSP5-8.5 با آهنگ 24/0 و 65/0 و دمای میانگین کمینه نیز با آهنگ 21/0 و 60/0 درجه سلسیوس در هر دهه افزایش داشته باشند. همچنین بیشترین افزایش دمای بیشینه و کمینه، تحت سناریو SSP5-8.5 و در آینده دور به ترتیب با 2/3 و 6/4 درجه سلسیوس رخ خواهد داد. با توجه به نتایج، بیشترین ناهنجاری مثبت، در دماهای کمینه مشاهده شد، به طوری که در تمام سال‌های دوره پیشنگری تا سال 2100، دمای میانگین کمینه نسبت به دوره پایه افزایش خواهد داشت، در حالی که طی بعضی از سال‌های آینده نزدیک، امکان کاهش دمای میانگین بیشینه نسبت به دوره پایه وجود دارد.
نتیجه گیری: نتیجه‌گیری می‌شود تا انتهای قرن حاضر دمای میانگین بیشینه و کمینه در بیشتر مناطق کشور روند صعودی خواهد داشت، که البته ناهنجاری‌های مثبت در دماهای کمینه بسیار مشهودتر از دمای بیشینه می‌باشد. همچنین تحت سناریوهای با انتشار بالای گازهای گلخانه‌ای، ناهنجاری‌های دمایی مثبت شدیدتر و آهنگ تغییرات بیشتر خواهد بود.

Abstract Background and Objective: The natural flow regime of the river is a very important factor in determining the functions of aquatic ecosystems and their surroundings. The aim of this study is to evaluate the hydrogeomorphological conditions of the Qorichai River in Ardabil Province using the MQI method.
Methodology: In order to achieve this goal, the Geomorphological Quality Index (MQI) method has been used. First, the river network is divided into homogeneous intervals (6 intervals). Then, related morphological indices such as bank stability, channel pattern, cross-section changes, sedimentation potential, and adaptation to the surrounding environment are calculated.
Results and findings: The results showed that the value of the geomorphological quality index in the studied intervals is between 0.77 and 0.27, among which the maximum coefficient is in interval 2 with a score of 0.77 in the good category, which indicates the greater dynamics of this interval compared to other intervals, and the minimum score is in interval 3 with a value of 0.27, which is in the very poor category. Therefore, it was concluded that the Qorichai River is in a poor condition from intervals 3 to 6 and does not have favorable conditions, but on the contrary, it has appropriate dynamics in intervals 1 and 2. Finally, it is suggested that practical measures be taken to protect the river in intervals with unfavorable quality.

Abstract Background and Objective: One of the methods of agricultural planning is determining suitable locations for planting crops and orchards based on climatic and physiographic conditions. The aim of this study is to locate areas suitable for cherry tree cultivation in the Hir region of Ardabil Province based on climatic elements and factors.
Methodology: In this study, data on climatic factors such as slope, elevation above sea level, and soil depth, as well as data on climatic elements including precipitation (annual, winter, germination, flowering, fruiting) and average temperature (winter, flowering, fruiting, and ripening) with a 30-year statistical period (1994 to 2023) were used. The research process included data collection, calculations and statistical analysis using Excel, determining the weighted index of criteria using the AHP method, and inputting and integrating information in the GIS environment.
Findings and Conclusion: The research results showed that altitude above sea level with a weight index of 0.166, winter temperature with a weight of 0.139, and germination temperature with a weight of 0.106 had the greatest impact on cherry tree planting. Each criterion was weighted according to the AHP method and classified in a GIS environment. The final cherry tree planting location map was prepared by integrating the classified criteria in the GIS environment. The results indicated that approximately 32% of the Hir region lands are very suitable, 19% suitable, 23% marginally suitable, and 27% unsuitable for cherry tree cultivation. Overall, the Bagh-e-Rabad and Hir stations, due to their favorable climatic and physiographic conditions, are among the areas suitable for cherry tree planting.

Abstract Background and purpose: Iran is one of the countries vulnerable to climate change and fires due to its location on the arid and semi-arid belt of the world and the high-pressure subtropical region. The phenomenon of fire is one of the environmental hazards that cause many casualties and damages to people, property and assets. Method: This research is based on descriptive-analytical nature and applied type. which has been done by reading books, articles and theses. The statistical population of the study is the geographical area of ​​Paveh city in Kermanshah province. which is based on field methods, tools and libraries and spatial data. Then the influencing parameters were prepared in Arc GIS software. In this research, 8 indicators (slope, slope direction, elevation classes (Dem), land use, wind direction, vegetation density, temperature increase, rainfall decrease) were identified as effective factors in fire. Then the information layers are prepared in the GIS environment. Findings: According to the research conducted and the observations of climate change and geographical factors of the study area, the results show that slope, vegetation, limited rainfall, and high temperature have the greatest effect on fires. The highest risk of fire is at the altitude of 1000-2000 meters, which is also the highest risk of fire on the southern and western slopes. Conclusion: In this research, using Sentinel 4 satellite images with color combination 4-8-14, which shows the image before the fire and at the same time as the fire. The area of ​​the fire area is estimated to be 1793 hectares. that the studied area is in a very high-risk category, and the results of the study indicate the high potential of the area in terms of causing fire hazards due to geographical and climatic factors. Therefore, the plan and map of areas with fire risk is a useful guide for crisis management.

Abstract Abstract
Abstract Background and Objective: Understanding climatic data and examining their effects on agricultural crops are among the key factors influencing site selection and, consequently, increasing production. The aim of this study is to evaluate the climatic and environmental potentials of the Arshaq region in Ardabil Province for rainfed wheat cultivation using the AHP and WASPAS decision making methods.
Methods and Material: uch as precipitation (annual, germination, tillering, wintering, regrowth, flowering, and grain formation), mean annual temperature, elevation, and slope were used based on a 30 year statistical period (1994–2023). The research process included data collection, statistical calculations and analysis using Excel, and determination of the weighted indices of the criteria through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) methods.
Results and Discussion: The data were analyzed using the AHP and WASPAS models. The research findings, utilizing the AHP model across the wheat growth stages, indicated that the most important effective factors for wheat cultivation in the Arshaq region were, in order of weighted criterion values: effective precipitation in the grain formation stage (0.195), precipitation during flowering (0.175), annual precipitation (0.132), and precipitation during germination (0.114). Based on the WASPAS method, the stations ranked as the most suitable for wheat cultivation in the Arshaq region were: Salavat (5.713), Khoshabad (5.219), Doustbeiglou (5.132), Qousheh Sofla (5.096), Kangarlou (5.026), Khalifehlou (5.023), Tazakand-e-Arshaq (4.928), Amirkandi (4.802), Arbabkandi (4.649), Samian (4.646), and Moshiran (4.374), respectively.
Conclusion: The final results of this study indicate that in over 60% of the Arshaq region, rainfed wheat cultivation is suitable and economically valuable, while in 25% of the area, cultivation is possible at a moderate to low level but still feasible.
Keywords: Climate, Arshaq region, rainfed wheat, and AHP, WASPAS, and GIS models

Abstract Background and Objective: Parsabad County, due to its diverse natural features and tourism attractions, has considerable potential for attracting both domestic and international tourists. However, inadequate introduction and promotion, insufficient access roads and directional signage, and limited infrastructure and accommodation facilities have resulted in many of its scenic areas remaining largely unknown, even to domestic visitors. Consequently, tourism activities in the region have not developed optimally. The present study aims to assess the ecotourism potential of Parsabad County with a focus on geomorphosites, including Oltan Castle, Qarlooja Tower, Aras National Park, Naderi Hill, and Qerkh-Pelleh, in order to enhance tourism development and attraction.
Methodology: This research is applied in nature and adopts a mixed methodological approach combining theoretical studies and field surveys. The evaluation of geomorphosites was conducted using the Pereira model, which enables a systematic assessment of scientific, aesthetic, cultural, and management values.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicate that the evaluated geomorphosites obtained the following scores: Oltan Castle (11.45), Qarlooja Tower (11.165), Aras National Park (12.7), Naderi Hill (12.31), and Qerkh-Pelleh (13.7). Based on these scores, Qerkh-Pelleh ranked first, followed by Aras National Park in second place, while Naderi Hill, Oltan Castle, and Qarlooja Tower ranked third to fifth, respectively. Overall, the findings demonstrate the high ecotourism potential of Parsabad County. The results can provide scientific support for tourism managers and planners to develop effective strategies for sustainable tourism development and improved tourist attraction in the region
.Keywords :Ecotourism, Geo-tourism, Pars Abad City, Pereira model.

Abstract Over the past decades, the Urmia Lake basin has experienced extensive land use changes accompanied by a severe decline in water level. This situation highlights the necessity of scientifically analyzing land use dynamics and proposing management patterns compatible with environmental sustainability. The objective of this study is to investigate ten year land use changes in the Urmia Lake basin (2013–2023) using Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 imagery and to propose an optimal land use pattern aimed at reducing environmental hazards. For this purpose, satellite images were subjected to geometric and atmospheric corrections and subsequently classified into four main classes using the supervised Maximum Likelihood Classification algorithm. Classification accuracy was evaluated using an error matrix, overall accuracy, and the Kappa coefficient, yielding an accuracy greater than 90%. Subsequently, the spatial pattern and areal changes of each land use class during the study period were analyzed and compared with the trend of lake water level decline. The results indicate that the significant expansion of agricultural lands and human built areas coincides with a substantial reduction in water bodies. This simultaneity suggests that land use changes have played a significant role in intensifying the lake desiccation crisis. To derive an optimal land use pattern, relevant spatial layers were standardized and integrated within a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment. Using the Site Selection function and a suitability threshold of ≥ 60%, a final proposed land use map was generated. According to this map, agricultural lands cover 563.51 km², water bodies occupy 345.29 km², human built areas account for 152.56 km², and other land uses encompass 17,939.05 km² of the study area. The findings emphasize that integrated water resource management, adjustment of cropping patterns, and continuous monitoring of land use changes are essential for achieving ecological sustainability and supporting the restoration of Urmia Lake.

Abstract Background and Objective: In recent years, climate change and human activities have increasingly intensified the global water scarcity crisis. These changes have disrupted the hydrological cycle, placing surface water resources under serious threat in terms of accessibility, quality, and sustainability.
Methodology: To assess the impact of climate change on surface water resources in the Babolrood watershed, meteorological and hydrometric data were initially collected. After addressing statistical deficiencies, removing outliers, and selecting a common temporal baseline, future climate variables (precipitation, minimum temperature, and maximum temperature) were projected for the period 2020–2100 using the CanESM5 climate model under IPCC AR6 scenarios SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5 within the SDSM framework. Streamflow simulation for the future period was conducted using downscaled data processed through an Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Finally, to identify trends in the projected data, non-parametric Mann–Kendall and Sen’s slope estimator tests were applied using the R software environment.
Results and Findings: Trend analysis of streamflow using the Mann–Kendall test, Sen’s slope estimator, and the ANN model over the period 2021–2100 revealed a weak and statistically insignificant decreasing trend across all SSP climate scenarios. The most pronounced decline was observed under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. Minimum temperature exhibited a non-significant increasing trend, potentially indicating nighttime or cold-season warming, while precipitation showed no discernible trend. The ANN model results were consistent with the statistical tests, confirming a gradual reduction in streamflow, thereby underscoring the need for sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. These findings not only confirm the direct impact of climate change on surface water resources but also highlight the importance of employing intelligent models for long-term analysis and sustainable water resource management. Moreover, they underscore the necessity of integrated approaches and region-specific analyses in future studies.

Abstract Background and Objective: Human societies have long enabled settlements by creating habitable environments that are suitable for their surroundings. In archaeology, this approach emphasizes the significant role of environmental factors in evaluating settlements within each period. Besides identifying the extent of environmental impacts, this perspective reveals the degree of adaptation of habitats to prevailing environmental conditions. As spatial tools have advanced, GIS archaeology has evolved, allowing the visualisation of ancient settlements and the analysis of changes in spatial use over time.
Methodology: This study uses environmental factor analysis to examine the settlement and distribution patterns of 161 ancient sites in the Qezel Ozan Basin with a GIS information system. After the analysis of GIS maps, it assesses and distributes these settlements in relation to the natural environment, focusing on water resources, altitude, slope, and land use.
Results and Findings: Since the 1st millennium BCE, the foothills and plains have seen an expansion in the dispersion of communities. 2. The 1st millennium BCE villages are mostly found at elevations of -2000 m, with an average slope of 5-10. They are situated less than -500 m from rivers, and the choice of land type has been made. A decrease in population and the type of seasonal deployments is indicated by altitude, steep slopes on riverbanks (plains to foothills). 3. Land use: The distribution of ancient sites in the Qezel Ozan river basin is indicated by the rise and development of agriculture, transportation routes along water resources, trade exchanges, and regional and interregional links.The evolution of settlements in the East Kurdistan region from the Chalcolithic to the Islamic era demonstrates the adaptation and competition of inhabitants with the natural environment in the Qezel Ozen basin. It also provides insights into the complex social development of the region.

Abstract Background and Objective: Water security as a comprehensive concept that encompasses the measurement of the achievement of various water resources management goals. In other words, water security is strongly influenced by many factors, including increasing urban population, economic development, changes in living standards, increasing water pollution, overexploitation of groundwater resources, and climate change. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate and prioritize the Water Security Index (WSI) in the Qarasu sub-basins in Ardabil province.
Methodology: In this study, hydrological (H), environmental (E), life (L) and ... indicators were used to estimate the water security index. In other words, the water security index uses the combination of the aforementioned indicators and normalization to assess the sustainability of the watershed.
Results and findings: The results of the environmental criteria assessment showed that the most rangeland is in sub-basin (17) with 19.33 percent, and in terms of forest land, the most is in sub-basin (7) with 60.92 percent, and the least rangeland is in sub-basin (11) with 0.04 percent, and forest land is in sub-basins (5, 11, 14) with 0.01 percent. The results of the life criteria assessment also showed that the most human development is in sub-basins (1, 4, 5, 11, 14, 15, 17, 24, 25) with a maximum score of 1. Finally, based on the results of combining the (H, E, L) indicators, the results of the Water Security Index (WSI) showed that the highest level of sustainability of the Qarasu-Samian watershed in terms of water security is related to sub-basin (1) with a value of 0.63, which indicates the sustainability of this sub-basin in the entire area of the Qarasu-Samian watershed. Also, the lowest level of water security sustainability of the watershed was assigned to sub-basin (21) with a value of 0.03, which indicates a very high weakness of the water security of the sub-basin in the entire area of the Qarasu-Samian watershed.
Conclusion: Therefore, it is concluded that the higher the sub-basins are in terms of hydrological, environmental and life indicators, the higher the watershed will be in terms of sustainability and water security. Finally, it is suggested that in future studies, more tests, indicators and new methods should be used to assess the water security of the watershed.

Abstract Background and Aim: Heavy rainfall every year leads to heavy and unpredictable floods in the world and Iran, which cause severe financial and human losses. The aim of this article is to examine the synoptics of the heavy and widespread rainfall in the northwest region of Iran on February 2, 1988.
Methodology: First, the amount of heavy precipitation that occurred was identified by ground stations in northwest Iran, and by receiving and analyzing upper-level atmospheric data, the key factors for heavy and widespread precipitation were identified. Next, maps of geopotential height, sea level pressure, omega, relative humidity and precipitable water, wind speed, and thickness at the 500 hectopascal level were used for the days of January 31 to February 2, 1988.
Finding and Results: The weather maps for heavy and widespread precipitation on February 2, 1988, in the northwest region of Iran indicate the establishment of a Siberian high-pressure system over northern Iran and the intrusion of a thermal low-pressure system from migrating Europe into the northwestern area under study at the 500 hPa level. This created a steep pressure gradient, where the ascent of warm air, along with the transfer of moisture from surrounding warm water sources such as the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, played a key role in the intensity and distribution of the heavy precipitation in the area in question. In the upper levels of the atmosphere, the formation of omega-shaped and rex blockings, along with deep Mediterranean low formations produced by these blocking systems, which placed the area of study in front of the existing trough axis, combined with the influx of very warm and moist air, led to the continuation of heavy and widespread rainfall on February 2 in northwest Iran.

Abstract Background and Objective: In recent years, the preparation of land cover maps through digital classification of remote sensing data has been considered as a suitable alternative for the preparation of this type of maps. Remote sensing is one of the new and efficient technologies in extracting land cover, updating maps, and detecting land cover changes. In this dirction, the aim of present study is to compare two methods of pixel-based and object-oriented classification in land cover mapping with using OLI image in Doviraj region, Ilam province using Idrisi Teerrset software.
Research Method: After the supply of related image and implementing geometric and radiometric corrections on image, we applied two classification methods to land cover mapping. To assess the accuracy of classification methods, we used of indices of overall accuracy, kappa coefficient, producer accuracy and user accuracy. The results show that the object-oriented classification method has more resolution than the pixel-based classification method.
Findings and Conclusion: The results of accuracy show that method of object-oriented in two indices of overall accuracy and kappa coefficient with (respectively) 94 percent and 0/93 percent was more accuracy then to pixel-based classification method with overall and Kappa coefficient 88 percent and 0/87 percent. The result of this study suggests that from object-oriented classification method use to production of land ucover map.

Abstract Background and Objective:Climate is a pervasive and important component of the ecosystem, and its changes, although insignificant, can affect other components to varying degrees. Among the most important climatic disasters that bring devastating environmental consequences every year are heat waves. The aim of the present study is to investigate the synoptic heat wave above 50 degrees Celsius on July 13, 2024, in Khuzestan Province.
Methodology:This research was conducted with an environmental perspective on atmospheric circulation, in which, first, the recorded temperatures of Khuzestan province stations and their changes were received from the Meteorological Department of Khuzestan province, and then by receiving data from the upper levels of the atmosphere and analyzing them, the causes of extreme heat were identified. In this research, to analyze the synoptic patterns leading to the heat wave in Khuzestan province, the atmospheric data at the level of 500 hectopascals were extracted from the NOAA website, which included maps of geopotential height, sea level pressure, omega, relative humidity and precipitable water, temperature, wind speed and thickness for the days of July 13-15, 2024.
Results and Findings:The results showed that the penetration of thermal low pressure systems in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the establishment of the subtropical Azores high pressure in the southwest and the Siberian high pressure in northern Iran at a level of 500 hectopascals, were the most important influential patterns in creating the heat wave of July 13, 2024 in Khuzestan Province, which began 48 hours ago. The association of this low pressure system located in the region with its topographic pattern (Southern Zagros heights) and its counterclockwise currents from the south and southwest of the province caused the warm advection of the radiant temperature of the hot deserts of Lut, Saudi Arabia, and the Sea of Oman. On the other hand, by passing over the warm waters of the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, it affected this region simultaneously with the onset of the hot season, which resulted in a sharp increase in temperature and provided the necessary synoptic conditions to create heat above 50 degrees Celsius in Khuzestan Province.

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a form of tourism that contributes to the growth and geographical sustainability of the region, its environment, culture, historical and aesthetic heritage, and also improves the lives of its residents. Geotourism is a new movement towards rural development. The aim of this research is to assess the geotourism and geomorphological potential of protected areas in Meshkinshahr Township using quantitative models.
Methodology: The research method in this study is based on the Serrano-Gonzalez-Truba and Kobalicova models. The Serrano-Gonzalez-Truba model is suitable for evaluating geosites located in protected areas. Geosites are evaluated in this method based on three main criteria that help to evaluate scientific and management values ​​and are considered a suitable method for the study area.
 Findings and Conclusion: The results of the evaluation of the Serrano-Gonzalez-Truba model showed that the Shirvan Daresi protected area ranked first with the maximum score in terms of diversity of geomorphological and geological forms. Also, with the highest score in terms of accessibility and landscape diversity, it has a high potential for field studies and tourist attraction compared to other study areas. According to the results obtained in the second place, the Gandomin region with a score of 8.5 has suitable protected areas for field research and tourism attraction. Therefore, based on the validation of the model criteria, it can be concluded that the Shirvan Daresi protected area in Meshkinshahr with the highest score has a great potential for development. Finally, it is suggested that future studies should also use human impact sub-criteria to evaluate protected areas.

Abstract Background and Objective: In recent years, with the increase in the frequency and intensity of flash floods, zoning the risk of this phenomenon has become essential. The Extended Flash Flood Model (MFFPI) is one of the modern and effective methods for assessing and zoning flash flood risk in watersheds. The aim of this study is to assess the flood potential in the Kuzet-Topraqi Watershed Sub-basins using the Extended Flash Flood Model.
Methodology: In this regard, first, information layers including slope, flow accumulation, land use, rock permeability, slope curvature, and soil texture were extracted in the GIS environment using base maps, and in the next step, all these parameters were weighted and weighted maps were produced using the Raster Calculator tool. Then, by overlapping these layers, the flash flood potential map for the Kozeh-Toparqi watershed was divided and extracted into five risk categories: very low (55 km2), low (126.10 km2), medium (266.15 km2), high (219.50 km2), and very high (138.03 km2).
Results and Findings: The results show that the northern and central parts of the basin are mainly in the low to medium risk range, while the southern and western areas experience the highest flood risk. The distribution pattern of these areas can be affected by geomorphological parameters such as slope, elevation, and drainage density, as well as hydrological and land use characteristics. In particular, areas with steep slopes, low permeability, and runoff-sensitive land uses are susceptible to flash floods. On the other hand, low-slope areas, which are mainly located in the middle areas, can become critical points in the development of floods due to the accumulation of incoming runoff from upstream areas. The results also showed that sub-basins 2 and 3 with areas of 0.02 and 0.15 km2, and in contrast, sub-basins 14 and 17 with areas of 29.27 and 14.98 km2, are located in very low and very high flood risk zones, respectively.
Conclusion: As a result, flood management in this basin requires adopting solutions appropriate to the topographic conditions. In steep areas, implementing watershed management operations such as constructing sedimentation dams and developing vegetation cover can help reduce runoff velocity and increase permeability. Also, in low-slope areas, creating flood control reservoirs and appropriate drainage can play an effective role in reducing flood risks.

Abstract Background and Objective: The aim of the present study is to analyze and evaluate the geotourism and geomorphological capabilities of Sarein County using the M GAM model. Sarein County is located in the northwest of Iran and in the geographical area of ​​47 degrees and 48 minutes to 48 degrees and 11 minutes east longitude and 38 degrees and 3 minutes to 38 degrees and 15 minutes north latitude.
Methodology: The present research is of an applied type and its research method is a descriptive survey conducted using a questionnaire. In this study, eight geosites in Sarein County (Verghesaran Suspension Bridge, Viladreh, Alvares Ski Resort, Goldasht Kalkhoran, Gharkenzagh, Ali Darvish Valley, Saridareh Valley, and Imamzadeh Atashgah) were evaluated by providing 20 questionnaires to tourists present in the study areas and also providing 20 written questionnaires to experts and specialists in these geosites and collecting their data. In this study, first some geomorphological landforms were identified and their boundaries were determined using library studies, aerial photographs, satellite images, field surveys and interviews. Then, using the M-GAM model, the tourism potentials of the landforms were examined.
 Results and findings: The results of the M-GAM model evaluation showed that, based on the evaluation of experts and visitors to the geotourism area, the Verghesaran Suspension Bridge has the highest core value. In terms of complementary values, the highest score was for the Atashgah Shrine with a score of 91.11, and in total scores, the highest score was for the Atashgah Shrine and the lowest total score was for Villadreh. Also, the M-GAM matrix using the main and complementary values ​​obtained from the analysis shows that the geosites of Goldasht Kalkhoran, Imamzadeh Atashgah, Darreh Saridareh, and Verge Saran Suspension Bridge are located in the Z23 field in terms of main values, and in terms of complementary values, they have a high level of potential for geotourism. The Ali Darvish Valley, Ghar Kanzagh, and Alvares Track geosites also have a medium value for geotourism in terms of primary and complementary value (primary and complementary value Z22), and finally, Viladreh is at a medium level in terms of primary value and at a low level in terms of complementary value for geotourism development.Therefore, it is concluded that there is a lot of room for improving geotourism in these places, and by investing in improving the infrastructure of these geosites and improving planning and promotional activities, these areas can attract many tourists and travelers, which will create jobs and increase the income of local people. Finally, it is suggested that the geotourism and geomorphological potential of Sarein County be analyzed and evaluated based on artificial intelligence and geotourism occurrence models.

Abstract Background and Objective: Floods are one of the natural phenomena that can cause significant damage to infrastructure, farmlands, and the environment. This phenomenon primarily occurs due to heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or a combination of these factors. Therefore, the aim of this study is to map flood hazard zones and examine their relationship with land use using the Analytic Network Process (ANP) model in the Razi Chay watershed in Ardabil Province.
Methodology: In this study, data from Landsat 8 satellite imagery from 2022, a 30-meter ASTER DEM map, a 1:50,000 scale topographic map, a 1:250,000 scale geological map, and other detailed information of the studied watershed were utilized. Ten parameters influencing flood occurrence were analyzed, including elevation, slope, slope aspect, vegetation cover, geological formations, distance from the river, flow direction, land use, precipitation, and drainage density. The Analytic Network Process (ANP) model was employed to determine the importance of each variable.
Findings and Conclusion: Among the studied parameters, slope (with a weight of 30%), elevation (with a weight of 21%), and land use (with a weight of 17%) were assigned the highest weights, indicating their significant influence in controlling flood occurrence in the Razi Chay watershed. The results show that approximately 36% of the Razi Chay watershed falls within high-risk and very high-risk zones. These areas are typically located in the lower part of the watershed, often at the confluence of the two main streams. Considering the spatial distribution of settlements in the region, it can be concluded that most of the settlements in the lower part of the watershed are exposed to flood risks

Abstract Background and Objective: Water and water governance have attracted much attention as a political concern in recent years. In response to the growing understanding of the water crisis, the literature on water governance has been rapidly increasing over the past two decades. The aim of the present study is to analyze the impact of E and L Indices on water sustainability and security in the Samian Watershed.
Methodology: In this study, environmental indicators and the life index were used to estimate the water security index. The environmental criterion focuses on environmental pressure, vegetation cover, and the percentage of protected areas in the watershed. The parameters of the life standard are related to the quality of human life and evaluate the standard of living and the human development index in the watershed. The pressure parameter is determined by the change in per capita income during the study period. In other words, the water security index uses normalization to assess the sustainability of the watershed.
Results and findings: The results of the standardization of the environmental index showed that the highest score was related to sub-basin 7 with a value of one and the lowest was related to sub-basins 5, 10, 14 and 27. Based on the results of the standardization of the human development index, it was shown that the highest level of human development was related to sub-basins 1, 4, 5, 11, 15, 17, 24 and 27. The lowest level of human development was related to sub-basins 12, 13, 18, 19, 21, 22 and 25. Finally, it is recommended to test and use other methods of estimating the Water Security Index (WSI) in future studies.

Abstract Background and Objective: Wheat, as one of the strategic agricultural products and staple grains in the global food basket, plays a key role in ensuring food security and livelihoods of human societies. According to the report of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), wheat is the third most important cereal crop in terms of production in the world after corn and rice, which plays a fundamental role in providing calories and protein needed by humans. Considering the strategic importance of wheat and the increasing need to increase its production, locating and optimally allocating suitable lands for cultivating this crop is considered one of the main priorities in the agricultural sector. The aim of this study is to compare the AHP and TOPSIS methods in order to zone lands suitable for rainfed wheat cultivation in the Balekhlo-Chai watershed of Ardabil.
Methodology: In this study, precipitation, temperature, altitude, slope and soil depth data of the Balekhlo-Chai watershed of Ardabil were used. Then, by processing the data in a GIS environment, a map of information layers was prepared for each of the criteria. The AHP method was used to determine the weight of the criteria and the TOPSIS model was used to prioritize the options. Then, by overlapping and combining the studied criteria, the final map of areas susceptible to rainfed wheat cultivation was determined.
Findings and Results: The results of data analysis using the AHP method showed that about 37 percent of the land in the Balekhlo-Chai watershed is very suitable for rainfed wheat cultivation, 22 percent suitable, 24 percent slightly suitable, and 17 percent unsuitable. Also, based on the TOPSIS method, about 37 percent of the area of the Balekhlo-Chai watershed is suitable, 32 percent slightly suitable, and 31 percent unsuitable for rainfed wheat cultivation. The results of the AHP method indicate that the slope criterion with a weight of 0.220, the height with a weight of 0.144, the annual precipitation with a weight of 0.122, and the precipitation during the ripening and grain-setting stages with a weight of 0.106 are the most important criteria in the stages of wheat cultivation in the Balekhlo-Chai watershed. Also, the results of the TOPSIS model prioritization showed that Nir station is the closest option to the positive ideal, followed by Sarein and Ardabil, respectively.

Abstract Background and Objective: Tourism as a modern phenomenon has an economic nature and has a special role and importance for countries that have this capacity. Geotourism is a combination of the words "geo" meaning earth and "tourism" meaning tourism. The purpose of this research is to evaluate geotourism potentials and its management in the tourist area of ​​East Azerbaijan province.
Methodology: The research method in this study is based on three models: Kobalikova, Kirchner and GEM. In the Kobalikova and Kirchner model, the criteria are classified into five groups: scientific and intrinsic values, educational values, economic values, conservation values ​​and other values, which cover almost all features of geotourism. The GAM model is a method of physical evaluation of primary geomorphosites to assess the sustainable planning and management of natural heritage sites and their transformation into tourism destinations. This method consists of two main and complementary values. The main values ​​include scientific and educational values, aesthetic and scenic values, and conservation values, and the complementary values ​​include performance values ​​and tourism values.
Results and Findings: The results of the evaluation based on the Kobalikva and Kirchner model showed that the geomorphosites of Arasbaran forests and the village of Shtebin received the highest score and the Aladagh region received the lowest score. Therefore, based on the validation of the models, it can be concluded that the forests of Arasbaran and the village of Shtebin received the highest score and have great potential for development. Finally, it is suggested that artificial intelligence be used in future studies to evaluate the geotourism areas under study and achieve more accurate results.

Abstract Background and Objective: Today decision-makers in dealing with drought consider the integrated management approach of crisis management and risk management simultaneously. So far, Mazandaran province has suffered a lot of damage from drought risk. Therefore, determining the level of vulnerability and type of meteorological drought risk situation in the study area, especially in the last two decades, is the main issue of this study.
Methodology: Methodology in order to determine the meteorological drought situation, the Standard Precipitation Index was used in this study. First, the monthlt rainfall statistics for 17 selected meteorological stations in the region were collected and tested for accuracy, precision and feasibility during the common period of 2000-2020. For each of the station in question the percentage of meteorological drought occurrence was determined on an annual time scale. Then the drought Hazard Index (DHI) was extracted by assigning weights and degrees for each of the different intensities. Also the vulnerability of meteorlogical drought was calculated using physical and socio-economic indicators and then the drought- vulnerable zones were determined. Finally based on the two factors of drought hazard index and vulnerability index, the risk of drought damage was calculated and then the zones at risk of meteorological drought were determined.
Results and Findings: Findings and conclusion the results of the research on drought conditions showed that the most severe droughts occurred in the region in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2017. Based on the drought risk index, the results showed that northern part of the region and its central part with an area equivalent to 24% in the SPI index, 22% in the VCI index (vegetation condition index) and 28% in the VHI index (vegetation health index) and 20%   in TCI index (surface temperature index) the area of Mazadran province are very susceptible to the risk of meteorological drought. 35 percent of the province's area, located in the north of the province, has very high drought vulnerability. The results of this study indicate that the risk and vulnerabilities caused by meteorological drought seriously threaten Mazandaran province. Meteorological drought risk maps can be used as a suitable warning tool in the risk reduction action plan for all policmakers, managers and stakeholders of the studied region. This issue is of particular importance in planning agricultural activities and the optimal use of water resources, especially in this province where the livelihoods of agricultural operators depend on both rainfed and irrigated agriculture.