Sustainable Rurality in Seyyed Ali Watershed, Mashhad County, Iran

The resident life sustainability is very threatened despite the sole proprietorship and high potential of the natural resources of Seyyed Ali Watershed in the Razavi district of Mashhad County, Khorasan_Razavi Province, Iran, and also due to the deprivation and severe poverty. The research aims to investigate different aspects of sustainable rurality as well as to analyze the natural benefits to achieve relative independence in the livelihood. The statistical population was all individuals above 18, living in the watershed. The required data and information were collected through three methods, including field survey, in-depth interviews with residents as well as completing forms and researcher-made questionnaires. The results indicate that the residents of the basin are a family community. The village lacks almost all infrastructure facilities. Based on the results, the variables of natural attraction, fate, social cohesion, and social participation were the main factors affecting sustainable rurality. Poor health, low income, poor nutrition, low literacy, and the young population were the causes of underdevelopment. Surveys showed that the watershed has a high potential for investment. Besides, the potential for alternative livelihoods is high that can contribute to the livelihood and socio-biological life of the region. However, watershed residents must interact with institutions, particularly entrepreneurship and rural development.