The evaluation of susceptible area for eco-tourism by using of analytical hierarchy process (AHP) (Case study: Babolrood watershed, Mazandaran)

Recreation planning is not only as a tools for enhancing of socio-economy levels of the people but because of its conservational functions can provide a dynamic conditions for conservation of natural resources. With respect to this point that the first step in recreation planning like planning for any activity is the evaluation of land potential for that activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of ecotourism of Babolrood watershed in Mazandaran province by using of analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographical information system (GIS). For this regard, firstly the most important effective criteria and sub-criteria in evaluating of the potential for recreation in the study area were determined by using prior researches, conditions of study area and expert knowledge. After that, some questionnaires were provided and between different experts were distributed. The weight of criteria in each questionnaire was calculated and then the averaged weights were estimated. With applying of AHP method and Expert Choice software the final weight for each criteria and sub-criteria was determined. After that, the needed maps for this evaluation were provided in GIS environment. At the end, with help of Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) technique the final potential map for the ecotourism development of region was provided. The results showed that 19/33 percent of study area has a high potential and 52/81 percent has a good potential for ecotourism. In addition, 23/19 percent has an average potential, 1/84 percent has a weak potential and 2/82 percent is not suitable for recreation land use.