Evaluation of the ecological capabilities of Kurdistan Province for the purpose of planning and Development of ecotourism

The increase in the urbanization population, industrialization, and the change in people's behavioral characteristics have expanded the use of recreation and entertainment ways.

Determining and evaluating the ecological capabilities of tourism in Kurdistan Province. Makhdoom model was used to evaluate the ecological power of Kurdistan Province.

The current research is a descriptive-survey study. Data collection includes the preparation of topographic map, geological map, meteorological data prepared from the meteorological department of Kurdistan, soil and vegetation information obtained from the environmental protection organization of Kurdistan. Also, population data was obtained through the National Statistics Center. Ecological capabilities were evaluated via Geographical Information System (GIS).

Geographical Context: 

The geographical territory of the current research was Kurdistan Province.

The findings showed that Kurdistan Province is highly capable for the establishment of concentrated tourism in an area of 14819.06.55 square kilometers, which is 51.570% of the total area; this is categorized the first class. On the other hand, there is a limitation in factors for the ability of extensive recreation, so the capability for this type of recreation in the study area is low. Therefore, totally 23,277.928 square kilometers is in this unsuitable class.

Based on the results, Kurdistan Province has a high potential for the establishment of concentrated tourism use in the first class with an area of 14819.06.55 square kilometers, which occupies 51.570% of the area under study. Although the study used Makhdoom model, other factors such as road access, water resources, and land use were utilized for the evaluation of the recreational potential of the study area.