Land use planning using the Geographic Information System (GIS) in Tandoreh (National Park) in Iran

Abstract

Land use planning is the science that determines land use through the study of the ecological character of land as well as its socio-economic structure. It is possible to plan for the appropriate use of the land and to enhance the present management of the land use by utilizing Geographical Information System (GIS). This study identified and took steps toward developing maps to determine the ecological and socio-economic resources of Tandoreh national park that encompasses an area of 356.58 km2. Digital maps were inputted along with explanatory data into an ArcGIS software application. In addition, all digital maps of layers including, elevation, slopes and aspects, soil texture, geology, soil erosion, vegetation or canopy percentage, climate and water resources have been integrated- superimposed in the ArcGIS environment based on the Makhdoom analytical and systematic analysis model. Finally, land use planning maps of the Tandoreh were developed considering the ecological and socio-economic characteristics of the area. The results of the evaluation of the area indicated land use appropriateness and allocation as follows: Strict Nature Zone 30.58 percent, Protected Area Zone 58.18 percent, Extensive Use Zone 6.64 percent, for Historical Culture Zone 0.2 percent, Recovery Zone 1.69 percent and 2.68 percent for Special use Zone.