Determination of Optimal Pattern of Conventional Agrarian Activities of Forest Fringe Villagers in Hezarjarib Area, Iran

Abstract

For the rural population, an improvement in the income of the agriculture and allied sectors is essential for improving the welfare, rural economic prosperity, and the overall economic development. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal pattern in various activities of forest fringe villagers of Hezarjarib area in 2013 for management of resources and rural development planning. For this purpose, the sample size was estimated to be 160 households out of a total of 472, by the use of proportional random sampling method. To collect data, we used a questionnaire whose reliability coefficient was determined as 0.81, by using the split-half method. The results of linear and goal programming model showed that, among the conventional activities of villagers, animal husbandry activity with the highest proportion played the key role in households’ welfare, representing 51.42% of the total income of household. Moreover, Goal Programing (GP) model was determined as a useful model to increase households’ welfare (10.42%) and reduce deforestation (74.6%). Accordingly, it is indicated that there is a potential to improve existing conditions and access to greater welfare in the study area. Thus, the production planning and guidance according to the above results can play an important role in villagers’ activity development. Keywords: Multi objective planning, Rural economy, Welfare.