Journal of Watershed Management Research

Extended Abstract
Background: With increasing population pressures and the psychological stress caused by dense urban environments, ecotourism has become an important approach for reducing mental pressure, creating employment, and helping rural and watershed communities emerge from social isolation. Today, tourism is considered one of the most important pillars of the global economy and the largest service industry in the world. It plays a unique role in regional development and is regarded as one of the most effective tools for enhancing environmental capabilities and achieving sustainable development. Many development planners and policymakers view tourism as a key component of sustainable development, which can contribute to economic diversification through proper planning and by identifying opportunities and limitations. In recent years, discussion about natural hazards and factors threatening tourism systems has gained serious attention. The present research aimed to investigate the tourism capabilities of the Zebh-Darreh sub-basin within the Talar watershed in Savadkouh, Mazandaran Province. The SWOT technique was used to determine strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, and the TOPSIS method was applied to prioritize the proposed strategies.
Method: Data for this research were collected and analyzed using a questionnaire and the Delphi technique, with the participation of 30 experts and watershed dwellers of the Zebh-Darreh sub-basin in Savadkouh City. A total of 15 internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and 15 external factors (opportunities and threats) influencing the tourism situation of this basin were identified and evaluated. In addition, 12 strategies were proposed to improve its tourism conditions. Based on the internal-external matrix of the SWOT model, the most appropriate strategic position for the Zebh-Darreh Talar sub-basin was identified as an aggressive strategy.
This sub-basin possesses a variety of natural and man-made potentials, such as permanent waterways, thick Caspian forests, historical monuments related to coal mining and extraction tunnels, Imamzadeh Seyed Mahdi, off-road roads, concrete steps for walking, agricultural and forestry products, forest resources, and numerous waterfalls. These features highlight the region’s high capacity for tourism development.
Results: The strategies emphasizing the use of natural and historical attractions and encouraging investment to utilize these potential capacities are the most important strategies for improving the tourism situation of the Zebh-Darreh Talar sub-basin. Internal and external factors were studied and evaluated to determine the region’s tourism strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The evaluation of external factors (EFE) indicated that “the increasing willingness of the private sector to participate in tourism-related plans and programs” and “financial incentives and long-term government loans for private sector investment” were the most significant opportunities for tourism development in this basin. In contrast, “the increasing unemployed population despite the region’s tourism potential” represented the most important threat according to respondents. The evaluation of internal factors highlighted that “the presence of beautiful natural attractions with a rare landscape, including waterfalls, forests, mountains, dense green cover, and access to the Zingalo Height”, was the most important strength of the tourism industry in this sub-area. However, “the lack of tourism infrastructure and weak management in tourism projects in the Savadkouh region” was identified as the most important weakness. Savadkouh City contains numerous natural, historical, cultural, and
man-made attractions that make it suitable for tourism development. Identifying and prioritizing tourism strategies in this region can play an important role in creating employment and improving economic conditions. The EFE matrix once again confirmed the significance of private sector participation and government financial support as major opportunities, while the challenge of rising unemployment remained a major threat to sustainable tourism growth. This study shows that the Zebh-Darreh sub-basin holds significant potential for tourism expansion through proper planning and strategic decision-making. However, attention must be paid to weaknesses, especially the lack of infrastructure and managerial deficiencies, which could limit development if not addressed.
Conclusion: Savadkouh City has abundant tourism attractions, including natural, historical, cultural, and man-made resources. Identifying and prioritizing strategic tourism programs will play an essential role in job creation and local economic development. It is hoped that relevant authorities will focus on the vision and goals of the tourism sector and, through precise foresight and planning, contribute to the expansion of the region’s economy. According to the results obtained from the TOPSIS method, “the presence of beautiful natural attractions along with a rare landscape, such as waterfalls, forests, mountains, dense green vegetation, and access to the high Zingalu mountain”, has the highest priority and represents the most significant strength of Zebh-Darreh. In terms of weaknesses, the lack of tourism infrastructure and poor management in the Savadkouh region are more prominently observed and require immediate attention. Tourism development, especially in its early stages, requires substantial governmental support. Providing low-interest loans, tax exemptions, and establishing training workshops for entrepreneurs can significantly assist investors and local communities. Such support encourages economic participation, attracts new investors, and ensures more effective utilization of regional resources. If government agencies and local authorities prioritize these initiatives, the tourism sector in Zebh-Darreh and the broader Savadkouh region can experience meaningful and sustainable growth. Overall, the findings highlight that the Zebh-Darreh sub-basin, with its rich natural and cultural heritage, offers a strong foundation for tourism development. However, achieving this potential depends on strategic planning, strengthening infrastructure, improving management, and creating the necessary conditions for private sector involvement. By addressing these key factors, the region can move toward sustainable development and enhanced economic vitality.