STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN CENTRAL ZAGROS MOUNTAINS

The Central Zagros Mountains Region in Iran with unique natural attractions has high ability to attract domestic and foreign tourists and improve the economy of local community in the area. However, these great capabilities are not properly utilized due to various reasons; therefore, region could not achieve its proper position in tourism industry either among Iranians or among foreign countries tourists. In this study as a part of United Nation Development Program and Iran Environment Organization joint research project in 2014-15, with regard to extensiveness of the region about 10 sample villages were selected by cluster random sampling for required data collection through standard questionnaires and open interview with local inhabitants and authorities. Description analytic method and Strength Weakness Opportunity Threat model were used for data analyses with SPSS software. Results imply that there is no adequate coordination among local and regional dignities for tourism industry development in the region and also adoption of aggressive strategy is not appropriate for this purpose at the present situation. So conservative approach can be designed and wt(1) strategy that is protective-defensive plan may be given first priority for tourism development in the region. This strategy must be followed by an expert working group from various related local and national offices to apply an integrated and coordinated program for sustainable and improved tourism industry. The nature of this strategy will decrease many current problems such as the lack of private sector investment, low performance of tourism development enterprises, stockpile of trashes in the area, informal settlement of tourists, low knowledge of related individuals, therefore attraction and income of tourisms industry will be solved or ameliorated. Finally, on the bases of research findings and outcomes some applicable strategies will be suggested.