A Conceptual Model of Integrated Water Resources Management for National Water Security

This research studied the factors and components related to integrated water resources management which affects water security. A model is presented which integrates the views of designers, director generals, water scientists, and legislative systems. This study also reviewed the international experiments and has customized them for Iran. The results of the international commissions and conferences were studied to compile the concept of integrated water resources management and water security. Then referring to international resources and the official Iranian water management system, the effective variables in these two concepts were selected and determined. The presented Fuzzy model took into account the opinion of high level national water managers and the water resources experts for multiple decision making with multiple criterions. The main criterions of integrated water resources management and water security were determined and the degree of their relativities were measured. At the end, a pattern and a conceptual model of integrated water resources management which emphasized on national water security are presented. The results of this research showed that fourteen main criteria should be considered for a model aiming at water security. Furthermore seventy practical strategies according to their degree of importance and priorities were examined and a scientific, practical and dynamic management in water resources management of the country were presented. The international recommendations were also ascertained.