نوع مقاله : پژوهشی
عنوان مقاله English
نویسندگان English
Geotourism, as a form of tourism based on geological and geomorphological features, plays a role in promoting local economic development and conserving heritage. This study aimed to analyze the role of geotourism in local economic development using the FASIES method in geosites of northern Damghan County. The study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of nature and method, and was conducted in 2025. Data were collected through library studies, field observations, Google Earth imagery, recording geomorphological characteristics, and interviews with 15 specialists in geography, geomorphology, tourism, regional planning, and tourism. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on their expertise, experience, and familiarity with the area. Data collection instruments included a questionnaire based on FASIES indicators and a observation form. Geosites were evaluated according to scientific value, visual attractiveness, accessibility, conservation status, tourism facilities, and development potential. Results showed that Cheshmeh Ali (14.01), Cheshmeh Pir-Khoshtar (12.06), and Simeh-Kuh (11.92) had the highest geotourism and economic potential, while Shahid Shahcheraghi Dam (4.38) and Mansour-Kuh (3.13) had the lowest scores, indicating infrastructural and tourism limitations. The study innovates by quantitatively prioritizing northern Damghan geosites from a local development perspective and integrating field assessment with expert opinions. Results indicate that targeted geotourism development can increase employment, strengthen tourism services, and improve local economies. Therefore, improving infrastructure and access routes, providing tourism facilities, and interpretive signage, strengthening community participation, and establishing integrated management, conservation, and monitoring are recommended for sustainable geotourism and local economic growth.
کلیدواژهها English