Prioritizing Water Resources for Conservation in a Land of Water Crisis: The Case of Protected Areas of Iran

This study examines the distribution of water resources in Protected Areas Iran and their priority for conservation. The results show that most are located north northwest due to favorable climatic conditions, topography, ambient temperature, annual rainfall levels. Conversely, lowest amount center southeast country. Water were prioritized based on expert ratings indicators determine value wetland with highest conservation is Anzali Wetland (Gilan province), which an international Ramsar Wetland. Namak Lake (Qom province) was deemed least important its geographical location, biological sensitivity, status. found support more surface provide space largest percentage resources, demonstrating great protecting Iran. However, level protection these critical although Areas, shown be insufficient. Therefore, appropriate planning integrated management approaches urgently needed protect aquatic habitats address current crisis.