Conserving Arjan Wetland: Fostering a Connection between Waterbirds and Their Habitat

In 2022, the AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society initiated a comprehensive project to enhance public awareness about the interconnectedness of waterbirds and wetlands in Arjan. Recognizing that the wetland’s health is closely tied to its bird populations, the project aims to use the Ruddy Shelduck as a flagship species to drive conservation. Supported by UDPS/SGP, Mras Parishan Association, and Avaye Zist Boum Arjan, this initiative is a key effort to restore the Arjan Wetland’s biodiversity and raise community involvement.

Objectives and Goals
The project’s objectives include:

• Highlighting the critical role of waterbirds in wetland ecosystems.
• Enhancing public awareness of wetland conservation and its socio-economic benefits.
• Establishing a sustainable model for wetland and bird conservation across Iran.
• Promoting ecotourism based on birdwatching to provide economic alternatives for local communities.

Methodology
The project involves a series of strategic steps:

1. Initial Assessment: Conducted pre-tests with local stakeholders to gauge existing knowledge about wetland biodiversity, waterbirds, and conservation attitudes.
2. Flagship Species Selection: Developed criteria focusing on ecological significance, cultural relevance, and community attitudes. Sixty-five local residents and nomads (2.7% of the population) were interviewed to ensure that the chosen species resonated with the community. The Ruddy Shelduck was selected, embodying both the wetland’s ecological importance and cultural values.
3. Educational Materials and Workshops: Designed 15 educational posters and conducted workshops to inform the community about the wetland’s vital role in biodiversity, water purification, and flood control.
4. Engaging Youth and Local Guides: Organized book-reading competitions in schools and trained local youth as birdwatching guides, reinforcing the link between wetland conservation and ecotourism opportunities.
5. Post-Test: An upcoming post-test will assess the project’s impact, particularly changes in public perceptions and knowledge about the wetland and its waterbirds.

Community Engagement and Activities
Several activities were designed to foster a holistic connection between the community, waterbirds, and the wetland:

• Workshops and Training: Four educational workshops introduced villagers to wetland ecology and bird conservation, highlighting how the Ruddy Shelduck’s health reflects the overall condition of the wetland.
• Birdwatching Tours: Birdwatching tours were conducted with local teenagers, emphasizing the importance of waterbirds in maintaining the wetland’s ecological balance.
• Creative Campaigns: AvayeBoom distributed promotional items like pins and stickers, fostering local pride.
• Economic Alternatives: A rural cooperative was established to promote ecotourism, offering training for community members in hosting birdwatching tours, thus linking economic benefits with wetland preservation.

Impact and Community Response
Early surveys revealed limited knowledge of the wetland’s importance. However, community engagement activities have dramatically increased awareness. Preliminary results show a surge in recognition and positive associations with the Ruddy Shelduck. Additionally, the project’s innovative methods have been documented in a scientific paper, “Selecting a Flagship Species for Conserving Arjan International Wetland in Iran,” currently in press in the Journal of Wildlife and Biodiversity. This documentation serves as a model for similar initiatives in other regions.

Acknowledgments
AvayeBoom expresses its deepest gratitude to UDPS/SGP, Mras Parishan Association, and Avaye Zist Boum Arjan for their continued support. Special thanks to the volunteers and local stakeholders whose collaboration has been vital for the project’s success.