Evaluation of the Ecological Functions of Gavkhoony Wetland and Need of Conservation and Restoration of Natural Values to Benefit of Present and Future Generations

Gavkhoony wetland with an area of 41371 km2 is one of the most important stability and continuity of life over the past few thousand years in the central part of Iran's. Gavkhoony is one of the 22 wetlands of international of 1847 wetland that has been accepted in the list of wetlands of the Ramsar Convention. In addition, due to the presence of migratory birds has been detected as one of the most important areas for bird life by Bird Life International organization. The destruction of the vegetation surrounding wetlands and overgrazing in the region, cut off bushfires and shrubs around the pond, industrial and municipal wastewater entering the river and the Gavkhoony and Uncontrolled fishing and hunting are the most important factors that has threatened this wetland. The purposes of this study are evaluation of the ecological functions of Gavkhoony wetland and protect it by using cross-sectional study and investigation resources. The main functions of Gavkhoony wetland are the protection of biodiversity and climate mitigation. Unique services are including tourism, heritage and education and Wetland products are including grazing and using local people. Since the destruction of this wetland influenced in all aspects of social, cultural, economic and political, it is necessary to maintain the correct policies and programs to be used this valuable ecosystem