Strategic Analysis of Agricultural Development by SWOT and QSPM Matrix: A Case Study of Urmia Lake Basin

Over recent years, agricultural sector of Urmia Lake Basin has been in crisis and due to its impact on Iran's food supply, it is essential to formulate a plan to stabilize the agricultural sector in this region. This study aimed at presenting a strategic plan for sustainable development of the agricultural sector in the Urmia Lake Basin through SWOT method using matrix of QSPM. The study results indicated that the main strategy for developing agricultural sector in this region was a defensive strategy; in addition, the priority to implement its sustainable development programs included management of agricultural water consumption, development of mechanization in the agricultural sector, integration of agricultural lands and their integrated management, and promoting the literacy and knowledge of the human resources employed in the agricultural sector, respectively. Sustainable agriculture is the only rationale way out of the crisis.