The relationship between socio-economic poverty and pasture degradation in rural areas of Ilam County

Pastures as one of the most important areas of natural resources in our country, play an essential role in achieving sustainable development. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic poverty and pastures degradation in rural areas of Ilam County. This research, in terms of purpose, was applied and a descriptive-correlation research method was used. The statistical population of this study included all rural households in Ilam County (N=6014) Based on the Cochran formula, 200 of them were selected by using a proportionate stratified random sampling method and studied by a questionnaire. The content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by a panel of experts and reliability was confirmed through a pilot- test and the Cronbach Alpha coefficient was calculated for each section of the questionnaire (α=0.855). Data analysis was performed by using the SPSS20 software. The survey of the status of poverty components showed that 63 percent of rural people were considered economically and 42 percent socially poor. The results of regression analysis showed that variables of housing status, income status, nutritional status and, psychological and mental conditions have explained 56% of the changes in pasture degradation in rural areas of  Ilam County. Therefore, it is suggested that the authorities provide the necessary conditions to improve the living conditions of the villagers in terms of economic and social aspects, to prevent the destruction of pastures in rural areas.