Assessment of Drylands and Desertified Areas in the Islamic Republic of Iran

This study analyzes the methods of evaluation and valuation of arid zone deserts in the Islamic Republic of Iran, where activities relating to desertification control originated 50 years ago. To gain a better understanding of the issues, the studies were focused on the Kashan area on the edge of the Central Kavir. In order to formulate a strategy for the assessment and valuation of activities to combat desertification in Iran, relevant factors have been classified and evaluated in two categories, namely human and natural factors. For each factor specific indicators have been defined and, based on these indexes, the severity of the effects of each factor is analyzed. Then, based on financial, economic, social, technical and environmental considerations, strategies including prevention, improvement and rehabilitation are identified.