Introduction of zoning plan formulated for the southern coastal area of Iran

Abstract

ABSTRACT: As a management tool for conserving the coastal ecosystems and sustaining the livelihood of the local community, spatial zoning plans were formulated for the coastal area of Hormozgan Province, Iran with the engagement of local stakeholders. The zoning plan was formulated by studying four key planning factors, namely 1) priority conservation areas, 2) local human activities, 3) ecosystem risks, and 4) zoning framework. Information and data on the ecosystem and human activities were collected through detailed field surveys, and subsequently, priority areas for ecosystem conservation and local community activities were identified and mapped. Risks to the ecosystem were assessed by employing InVEST Habitat Risk Assessment model, and the outputs were utilized for setting and delineating the zoning boundaries. From these studies, zoning plans were formulated under five zoning categories each set with different degrees of regulations on human activities. The processes and methods established for formulating the zoning plan were based on scientific and objective assessment, and are considered also to be adaptable to other regions and countries.