Recognition of the Role of Water in Rural Development of Arid Regions Using Morris Model and Correlation Analysis: A Case Study in Larestan, Iran

Abstract

Today, conservation and optimal utilization of water resources is an important global issue. Especially, in the arid regions sustainable usage of water is a critical and vital matter. Recognition and analysis of various aspects of this problem and being aware of it can promote extraction and optimal usage of water. In this study the role and significance of water in rural development of the southern region of Iran – Larestan – will be discussed. After dividing this region into seven rural systems and evaluation of their development based on Morris Model, the correlation coefficient between rural development and water (annual precipitation and groundwater quality) was calculated. The result is that, unlike the insignificance correlation between development and annual precipitation, but the degree of development of rural systems in Larestan has high correlation with groundwater quality. Therefore, strategies for extraction and optimal usage of groundwater would provide new capacities for further development.