2005 Volume 3 Issue 2 Pages 253-261
Spatial planning is a valuable tool to support sustainable development by basing the plans, measures and interventions on key sustainability principles. The development of a spatial plan runs through three main processes; baseline data analysis of the existing situation and problems and potentials; formulation of objectives and strategies; and integration across sectors and synthesis of all aspects into a coherent balanced spatial framework. The technical part of planning was based on development of a comprehensive Geographic Information System (GIS) and database system and also included mathematical models to predict outcomes of certain measures. The planning maps of the relevant issues are constructed in order to plan for watershed management. As an example, the initial analysis determined that reforestation was a high priority issue for many reasons, both related to preservation and enhancement of nature and environment and people′s living conditions. GIS was applied to define potential zones for reforestation and mathematical models calculated the result in terms of runoff, sedimentation and water quality. The potential zones for reforestation were then used as a framework for integrated planning. This paper will demonstrate the planning maps used for integrated water shed management on the basis of spatial planning concept.
