Strategies and policies for water quality management of Gharasou River, Kermanshah, Iran: a review

Water quality of rivers depends on land use, sediment load, natural hazards such as flooding and drought, water pollution and eutrophication, and multiple use. The water quality management of the Gharasou River in a basin-scale approach was reviewed. Both non-point and point sources were investigated in terms of management, land use, and patterns of land use change, soil erosion and sediment load, the changes of water compositions, and sources of water pollution. The role of local farmers in planning and implementing management strategies and policies and vulnerability management was also reviewed. The results showed that in the Gharasou River Basin, conversion of rangelands to rain-fed lands is the main factor that produces sediment loads in the hilly area as they are the most sensitive areas to soil erosion. Sub-basins producing the most considerable runoff and sediment in the main outlet are now evident. The position of point pollution sources and sources responsible for non-point pollution of the Gharasou River is determined. Conversion of rain-fed lands to forest, prohibiting improper agricultural activities, organic farming, government investment for rangelands, wastewater treatment plants, phytoremediation, considering the factors for vulnerability management of drought, and participation of rural communities are suggested as some management strategies and policies for water quality management. This study is likely to help government and policy-makers to have a realistic picture of the water quality of the Gharasou River, its problems, and the reasons responsible for present conditions. The government and policy-makers could/should plan and fulfill the best policies regarding local peoples' needs and participation to manage natural resources such as soil, water, and land cover/land use.