یونس رستمی کیا

Testing the origin of seeds from native species and identifying the appropriate provenance for producing high-quality seedlings and maximizing productivity in forest nurseries is essential. This study aimed to investigate the effect of seed origin on the germination percentage and growth traits of small-fruited cherry (Cerasus microcarpa C.A.M.) seedlings in the Khalkhal region of Ardabil province. For this purpose, ripe and healthy fruits of small-fruited cherry were collected from four habitats in Khalkhal. After measuring their quantitative properties, the seeds were planted in plastic pots containing natural habitat soil at the Kandragh Khalkhal nursery. The traits measured included seed germination percentage, survival percentage, height, collar diameter, and root and shoot dry weights of the seedlings. The findings showed that seeds from the Kandragh origin were larger and heavier compared to those from Barandaragh, Menamin, and Soshab populations. Analysis of variance indicated that seed origin significantly affected all investigated traits. The highest seed germination rate (38%), survival rate (93.5%), height (10.57 cm), collar diameter (2.94 mm), root dry weight (1.04 g), and shoot dry weight (1.98 g) were observed in seedlings from the Kandragh origin. Therefore, Kandragh is recommended as the optimal seed origin for producing healthy and robust small-fruited cherry seedlings in forest nurseries.

Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is considered one of the most prominent species of Ardabil Fandoghlou forest in. This species is ecologically and economically important and is one of the most valuable medicinal plants in traditional medicine and pharmaceutical industries. Unfortunately, in recent years, conversion of use, livestock grazing, fire and cutting of trees have been effective factors in the destruction of this valuable forest. Considering the ecological and economic importance of the hazelnut species, it is very important to restore the habitats of this species through seedlings. On the other hand, the success of planting depends a lot on the establishment and survival of planted seedlings (Spehbadi, 2019), which chemical fertilizers are used most of the time. The use of these fertilizers has had adverse effects on the soil ecosystem, and in addition to destroying beneficial soil microorganisms and the poor growth of seedlings, it has resulted in several adverse effects on the environment and human health. The use of growth-promoting microorganisms is considered one of the biological methods to increase the yield of plants and reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers. Trichoderma spp. have been known as plant growth promoter besides its primary function as pathogen inhibitor. This research was conducted with the aim of the effect of T. harzianum on of physiological properties of hazelnut seedlings in field conditions.

At the beginning of May 2016, in Ardabil Hazelnut Nursery, the soil around the roots of potted hazelnut seedlings, produced from the three sources of Fandoglou (Ardabil Hazelnut Forest), Makesh (Guilan) and Makidi (Arasbaran) with T. harzianum were inoculated. Then, in November 2017, the one-year-old hazelnut seedlings were transferred to the area adjacent to the nursery located in lands of the forest edge with an area of 4050 m2. Then they were planted in factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design (with the two factors mentioned above including three seed sources and T. harzianum inoculation and no inoculation or control in three replications). The number of seedlings in each replication was 25 (450 seedlings in total), which were planted a distance of 3 × 3 m in rain-fed conditions. The characteristics of leaf area, specific leaf area and physiological properties including leaf area, specific leaf area, photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, water use efficiency (WUE) and chlorophyll content were measured. For this purpose, in each treatment, three seedlings were randomly selected and measurements were taken on the fourth and fifth healthy and fully grown mature leaves from the tip of the plant using a photosynthesis meter on a sunny day (mid-September) and it was done in the open air under natural conditions of temperature, light and relative air humidity between 9:30 and 11:30 while the constant leaf temperature was between 20 and 25 o C.

After four years, all measured properties were significantly affected by fungal inoculation. Inoculated seedlings from all three origins displayed higher values for all investigated traits compared to controls. The highest of leaf area (22.4 cm2), specific leaf area (119.2 cm2 g-1), photosynthesis rate (18.45 µmol Co2 m2 s-1), stomatal conductance (0.198 mmol m2 s-1), transpiration rate (mmol H20 m2 s-1), water consumption efficiency (7.69 µmol Co2 mol H2o -1) and chlorophyll content increased by (26.49 %) were obtained from Seedlings of Fandoglou origin inoculated with T. harzianum in compared to the control (non- inoculated seedlings). The lowest of leaf area (12.4 cm2), specific leaf area (85.5 cm2 g-1), photosynthesis rate (8.01 µmol Co2 m2 s-1), stomatal conductance (0.101 mmol m2 s-1), water consumption efficiency (2.41 µmol Co2 mol H2o -1) and chlorophyll content increased by (14.15 %) were observed from Seedlings (non- inoculated) of control with origin of Makidi.

The present study showed that the hazelnut seedlings of the origin of Fandoghlou under the influence of T. harzianum inoculation were superior in terms of the studied traits in comparison to the two origins of Makseh and Makidi. Therefore, for the production of healthy and strong hazelnut seedlings in the nursery, the origin of the Fandoghlou can be used. An important point in inoculation of seedlings with T. harzianum fungus was the increase in the water use efficiency (WUE) of of hazelnut seedlings with the origin of Fandoghlou up 150% compared to the control seedlings. So, it can be concluded that by increasing the rate of photosynthesis rate and reducing transpiration rate, inoculated seedlings increase the efficiency of water use and can have more vegetatative growth and suitable physiological traits in reforestation or create of hazelnut gardens in the prone lands of Fandoghlou forest. Keywords: Arasbaran, Corylus avellana, Stomatal conductance, Specific leaf area.

Growth-promoting bacteria are among the beneficial soil microorganisms, and by improving the soil quality, they increase the growth and nutritional traits of the plant. Therefore, in order to investigate the effect of growth-promoting bacteria on the leaf surface, specific leaf surface and absorption of nutritional elements of hazelnut seedlings, a factorial experiment was carried out in the form of a randomized complete block design in the field conditions. The main factor was the origin of the seedling (at two levels: Fandoglou and Makesh) and bacterial inoculation (at five levels: P. putida, B. subtilis and E. cloaca, combination of them and Control) with three replications. Twelve seedlings were planted at a distance of 3 × 3 m in holes with dimensions of 50 × 50 × 50 cm on an area of 3240 m2 in the agricultural lands at the neighborhood of Fandoglou forest in Ardabil. The results after four years showed that the inoculated seedlings of both origins were superior in terms of all investigated traits compared to the control (un-inoculated) seedlings. The highest amount of traits was assigned to the seedlings of Fandoglou origin inoculated with the combination of all three bacteria (P. putida, B. subtilis and E. cloaca). The leaf area and specific leaf area were 53.1 and 37.7% more in the inoculated seedling compared to the control, respectively. The concentration of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorous, iron and zinc in the seedling leaf increased by 59.4, 89.5, 23.7, 45.4 and 60.6% compared to the control, respectively. Finally, it can be concluded that the planting of hazelnut seedlings inoculated with growth-stimulating bacteria (combination of the three mentioned bacteria) will have more vegetative growth.

In this study, the indicators affecting Poplar cultivation in Ardabil province were investigated and then strategies for the development of Poplar wood cultivation in this area were determined. The study was conducted by field method and with the utilization of a combination of SWOT and QSPM matrices in the form of Delphi method. The statistical sample of the research included 43 experts and specialists. Based on the results, in the SWOT matrix, 29 strength and weakness indicators and 29 opportunity and threat indicators were identified in relation to the development of poplar wood cultivation in Ardabil province. According to the total final scores (IFE: 2.625 and EFE: 2.133), the decisive strategies for the development of poplar cultivation include competitive strategies (ST). In examining the importance of the selected strategies in the QSPM matrix, the design strategies of the system for determining the raw materials needed by the wood industries of the province and attracting investment from the owners of the industries for planting Poplar (ST1:5.83 ), supporting the operational implementation of the research projects carried out in the field production and supply of high-yielding poplar cultivars and modern and agricultural irrigation (ST2:5.79) and the creation and development of various support organizations to provide the inputs needed by poplar cultivators (ST5:5.74), in the first to third priorities were placed.

Corylus avellana L from the Corylacesae family is one of the pioneer species in the early stages of the hazel forest sequence and plays a very important role in the restoration of degraded forests. Unfortunately, in recent years, conversion of use, livestock grazing, fire and cutting of trees have been effective factors in the destruction of this valuable forest. The low percentage of survival and vegetative growth in the early years of hazelnut seedlings increases the production costs of seed-roasted seedlings in the nursery and also causes delays in afforestation programs. This research was conducted with the aim of the effect of T. harzianum on the establishment and improvement of the growth and nutritional characteristics of hazelnut seedlings in field conditions.

At the beginning of May 2016, in Ardabil's Hazelnut Nursery, the soil around the roots of potted hazelnut seedlings, produced from the three sources of Fandoglou (Ardabil Hazelnut Forest), Makesh (Gilan) and Makidi (Arasbaran) were treated with the fungus T. harzianum were inoculated. Then, in November 2017, the one-year-old hazelnut seedlings were transferred to the agricultural lands on the edge of the Fandoglou forest, and according to the above two factors (fungi, seed origin) in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications of 25 in the conditions They were cultivated dry and the percentage of survival, growth, collar diameter, height and nutrition of hazelnut seedlings were measured during four years.

The results after four years showed that all the examined characteristics were affected by the mushroom inoculation treatment. The main effect of seedling and mushroom origin on all investigated traits was significant at the five and one percent level. The interaction effect of seedling origin × mushroom inoculation on the characteristics of survival percentage, root biomass at the level of 1% and for growth of collar diameter and height, stem and leaf biomass and nutritional elements of leaves of hazelnut seedlings at the error level of 1 And five percent was significant. So that the inoculated seedlings of all three origins had the highest values in terms of all investigated traits compared to the control seedlings. The highest amount of studied traits was found in the seedlings of the origin of Fenugreek inoculated with the fungus T. harzianum was assigned. So that in these seedlings, the survival rate is 65.8%, the shoot growth is 52.2%, the height growth is 54.6%, and the dry biomass of root, stem and leaf is 48.603, respectively. 46.5 and 37.40% and the concentration of leaf nutrients including nitrogen 27.81, phosphorus 23.23, potassium 34.7% increase compared to the unfertilized seedlings of Fandoglou origin. Although the responses of the seedlings were different in terms of the studied traits. Hazelnut saplings with the origin of Fandoglou and Makesh were superior in terms of the studied traits compared to the origin of Makidi..

For the production of strong hazelnut seedlings for afforestation in susceptible lands, the mentioned two sources can be used. Finally, according to the findings of this research, T. harzanium can be used as a biological fertilizer to increase the percentage of success and improve the vegetative characteristics of hazelnut seedlings

Mycorrhizal fungi are one of the useful soil microorganisms, which can increase the growth of the host plant by absorbing and transferring more water and nutrients to the plant due to symbiosis with plant roots. Therefore, in order to investigate the effect of mycorrhizal fungi on the biomass and nutrient absorption of hazelnut seedlings, a factorial experiment was conducted in the form of a randomized complete block design in field conditions. The investigated factors included the three origins of the seedlings (Fandoghlou, Makesh, and Makidi regions) and fungal inoculation in three levels (Rhizophagus irregularis, Myco root inoculum and control) with three replications of 25 at a distance of 3x3 m, in an area of 6075 m2 in the agricultural lands on the edge of Fandoghlou Forest in Ardabil, Iran. After four years, the results showed that the inoculated seedlings of all three origins were superior in terms of all the examined characteristics compared to the control (non-inoculated) seedlings. The highest traits belonged to Fandoghlou seedlings with R. irregularis inoculation. In these seedlings, root colonization, dry mass of root, stem and leaf were, respectively, 51.9%, 54.4%, 45.1%, and 40.7% higher, and N, P, K, Fe, and Zn were, respectively, 38.8%, 45.4%, 62.9%, 35.5%, and 42.6% more compared to the control seedlings. Finally, it can be concluded that planting of hazelnut seedlings inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi (especially R. irregularis) will have higher vegetative growth.

The slow growth of hazelnut seedlings, particularly during the initial years of afforestation, hampers the rehabilitation and development programs of hazelnut forests. In this context, biological fertilizers, especially plant growth-promoting bacteria, can be an effective strategy to enhance the growth and physiological traits of hazelnut seedlings. In May 2017, new hazelnut potted seedlings from two seed sources - Fandoglou (Ardabil Fandoglou forest) and Makesh (Aghvalar Guilan forest) - were propagated in an Ardabil hazelnut nursery. These seedlings were inoculated separately and in combination with Pseudomonas putida DSM291, Bacillus subtilis FzB24, and Enterobacter cloacae E1. In November 2017, the one-year-old hazelnut seedlings were transferred to agricultural lands bordering the Fandoglou forest. The seedlings were planted in rain-fed conditions following a randomized complete block design with three replications of 12 based on two factors: fertilization and seed origin. After four years, it was observed that inoculated seedlings from both origins outperformed non-inoculated ones in all investigated traits. The largest parameters of the studied variables were attributed to the Fandoglou-origin seedlings inoculated with a combination of three bacteria. These seedlings showed a survival rate of 49.7%, collar diameter growth of 51.1%, height growth of 60.4%, and dry mass increases in roots (85.6%), stems (75.1%), and leaves (68.2%). Additionally, photosynthesis increased by 49.9%, stomatal conductance by 58.04%, water consumption efficiency by 121.7%, and chlorophyll content by 46% compared to non-fertilized Fandoglou-origin seedlings. In conclusion, considering the role of the studied growth-promoting bacteria (especially the combined treatment) in enhancing the growth characteristics and physiology of hazelnut provenances, inoculating hazelnut seedlings with bacteria in nurseries can be a beneficial strategy for successful field transplantation.

Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. is a forest shrub that has a great role in the formation, evolution, and improvement of the beech forest stands structure. Currently, the irregular collection and harvesting of the fruit of this species (due to its medicinal properties and high economic value) even before the fruit fully ripens in the study area, has endangered the existence of this species. Vaccinium arctostaphylos is a recalcitrant plant and therefore its propagation by conventional asexual methods is almost impossible. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of auxin and inoculation of growth promoting rhizobacteria on callus formation, root formation and growth traits cuttings.

The semi hardwood cuttings of V. arctostaphylos were collected at the end of August from the natural habitat of this species (Soha forest) located in the south-east of Ardabil Fandoghlou Forest. For surface sterilization cuttings were washed with water and 2% Benomyl fungicide solution for 15 minutes. In order to stimulate root induction, the bottom of the cuttings was scratched with a sharp knife to a length of one centimeter and a depth of approximately 2 mm. Cuttings were treated with concentrations of 0, 500, 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 mg/ L of Indole -3-butyric acid and then were inoculated with two bacteria including Pseudomonas putida STRAIN 169 and Enterobacter cloacae STRAIN 3, alone and together. Cuttings were planted in perlite - sand medium and then they were kept in a mist system-equipped greenhouse. After 90 days from planting, the percentage of callus formation, root formation, number of roots, root length, root dry weight, root volume, leaf area, and seedlings height were recorded.

In the control cuttings (without the application of hormones and bacteria) and the cuttings treated with 500 mg L-1 of IBA with and without P. putida and E. cloacae were treated, callus and root formation were not performed. The highest callus formation (50.20 %), root formation (41.10 %), root number (3.22), root length (3.55 cm), root dry weight (0.355 g), root volume (0.358 cm3), leaf area (8.88 cm2) and height cutting (14.07 cm) was observed in cuttings that treated by Indole -3-butyric acid 3000 mg/L and inoculated with both P. putida and E. cloacae.

The present study showed that V. arctostaphylos is one of the recalcitrant species, then, for more succeed in cuttings root induction, it is suggested that semi-woody cuttings should be collected in August and cuttings should be treated by a concentration of 3000 mg/L of Indole -3-butyric acid along with inoculation of both P. putida and E. cloacae bacteria.

In this research, a methodology is presented to evaluate the ability of plants for rill and gully erosion control in south of Ardabil province. The plants potential for controlling of concentrated flow erosion was determined based on a multi-criteria analysis. The stem density (SD), top soil erosion-reducing potential of plant roots during concentrated flow erosion (RSD), sediment obstruction potential (SOP), index of plant stiffness (MEI) and root cohesion (Cr) were calculated for 36 native plants (SD=1.216×〖10〗^(-4)-0.28, RSD=3.6×〖10〗^(-42)-10,1076, SOP=0.00082-0.988, MEI=1.69×〖10〗^(-6)-53.471 and Cr=5.432×〖10〗^(-4)-34.62). SD ranges from 0·26 to 28%. The plants Acantholimon talagonicum L. and Festuca Ovina L. have the highest stem density. These are small plant species with a good soil cover in spring and summer. SOP ranges between 0.00128 and 0.988 m/m. The plants Colutea persica Boiss., Melica altissima L., Festuca Ovina L., Verbascum thapsus L. and Amygdalus scoparia Spach have a high potential to obstruct sediment and organic residues. The results of the MEI calculations show that the shrubs and bushs Colutea persica Boiss., Amygdalus scoparia Spach, Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb., Salsola kali L. and Rhus coriaria L. are the most resistant to bending through flow shear forces (5.19-34.626N). Some plants such as Amygdalus scoparia Spach, Glycyrrhiza aspera Pall. or Stipa pennata L. have low RSD value that ranges from 6.68×〖10〗^(-24) to 3.6×〖10〗^(-42), and a high erosion-reducing potential through their roots during concentrated flow. Combined planting of plant species can be more effective in erosion control. The results can be used in adjacent regions and similar cold-semiarid and cold-arid environments.

One of the main reasons for the failure of planting projects with hazelnut is climate change and subsequent drought stress in the early years of growth. The aim of this study was to rehabilitate and develop degraded hazelnut forest stands in rainfed conditions in Ardabil hazelnut forest. For this purpose, in early May 2016 in Ardabil hazelnut nursery, new hazelnut potted seedlings produced from three seed sources including Fandoglou (Ardabil Fandoglou forest), Makeh (Aghvalar Gilan forest) and Makidi (Arasbaran forest) were inoculated with fungi Rhizophagus irregularis as well as Mycoroot (containing arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Glomus mosseae, G. etunicatum and Rhizophagus irregularis). Then, in April 2017, uniform annual hazelnut seedlings were transferred to the lands to Fandoglou forest (area 6075 m2) and were tested in factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design with three replications of 25 in dryland conditions. The results after four years showed that mycorrhizal seedlings, produced from seeds of all three origins, had larger sizes in most of the studied traits than control seedlings. The highest root colonization of seedlings (51.9%), as well as the largest sizes of most of the measured variables belonged to seedlings of Fandoglou origin inoculated with R. irregularis. Survival, collar diameter growth, height growth, photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, water consumption efficiency, and chlorophyll content, respectively, increased by 52.7%, 82.1%, 58.9%, 102%, 152.2%, 272.9%, and 63.6% compared with the control (non-mycorrhizal seedlings of Fandoglou origin). Considering the satisfactory symbiosis of hazelnut seedlings with mycorrhizal fungi, for the production of hazelnut seedlings in Fandoglou forest nursery and its planting in degraded areas of this region, seedlings produced from the origin of Fandoglou seeds coexisted with the R. irregularis is preferred to seedlings with the origin of Makeh and Makidi inoculated with Myco root.

Lack of wood resources and forest degradation in the country, on the one hand, and the inability to import wood and its products to the country, on the other hand, have doubled the importance of wood supply for the country. Lack of information on the current situation (area and distribution) of poplar planting in Ardabil province is one of the main problems of wood production managers in planning and managing wood supply. In this regard, preparing the distribution map and determining the area of poplar wood cultivation can help the planners of the province in assessing the situation of poplar planting as well as issues related to the cultivation and development of wood cultivation in the region. For this purpose, Multi-temporal Sentinel-2 satellite data were used from the beginning to the end of the poplar growth period (first half of March to December 2018), at least six time periods between 30 and 40 days. After processing, interpretation, data analysis, including atmospheric correction, geometric correction, selection of appropriate bandwidth and temporal composition of images, modeling based on time series data, and model testing in pilot areas with fieldwork information (training examples) for use in the model a map of poplar areas in Ardabil provinces was extracted. The results showed that the province's poplar plantations were equivalent to 1074 hectares in 1397. According to the distribution map, most poplar parts are located in Meshgin Shahr, Ardabil, and Khalkhal. Most of the poplar planting plots of less than 0.5 hectares are strip or linearly planted in the margins of gardens and streams to transfer water to farms, which in addition to producing wood, act as windbreaks and garden fences. Evaluation of the accuracy of maps extracted from Sentinel-2 satellite data using 140 samples was randomly selected. The overall accuracy of the prepared map was 93.2%, which indicates the acceptable accuracy in distinguishing poplar crops from other forest species and fruitful in the extracted maps. The findings of this study can be valuable basic information for use in monitoring the area of poplar planning and management decisions in wood farming in the province.

Caucasian whortleberry seed germination faces with problem due seed dormancy. This research was conducted to investigate stratification and gibberellic acid treatments on Caucasian whortleberry seed germination. For this purpose, Caucasian whortleberry ripe seeds were collected from the forest area of Fandoglo (Soha forest). For this purpose, ripe seeds of Caucasian whortleberry were collected from the forest area of Fandoglo (Soha forest) and then treated with stratification treatment (0, 1,2,3,4 and 5 month) at 4°C followed by gibberellic acid (0, 75 and 150 mg/l) for 24 hours. The germination test was performed through a factorial experiment with two factors of stratification and gibberellic acid Caucasian whortleberry seed germination faces with problem due seed dormancy. This research was conducted to investigate stratification and gibberellic acid treatments on Caucasian whortleberry seed germination. For this purpose, Caucasian whortleberry ripe seeds were collected from the forest area of Fandoglo (Soha forest). For this purpose, ripe seeds of Caucasian whortleberry were collected from the forest area of Fandoglo (Soha forest) and then treated with stratification treatment (0, 1,2,3,4 and 5 month) at 4°C followed by gibberellic acid (0, 75 and 150 mg/l) for 24 hours. The germination test was performed through a factorial experiment with two factors of stratification and gibberellic acid in completely randomized design with three replications in the seed laboratory of Ardabil Alaroq Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Station. The results showed

Fire is one of the dynamic and effective factors on forest and rangeland ecosystems so that the evaluation and monitoring of its effects has an important role in planning and management of natural ecosystems. To determine the short-term effect of fire on vegetation changes, a burned area and a homogeneous area without fire (control) in Vanon Khalkhal region were selected. Four transects with length of 200 m were established using systematically random method and 10 plots of the 1 m2 were installed on each transect at a distance of 20 m. Vegetation sampling was done for 3 years in 2018, 2019, and 2020. The results showed that there was a significant difference in density, forage production and canopy cover percentage during the studied years. The average plant density in burned area in 2018, 2019 and 2020 years were 25.05, 31.65 and 33.91 N/m2, respectively and in the control area at the same time were 17.74, 18.17 and 22.84 N/m2, respectively. Forbs decreased from 40.1% of canopy in the control area to 23.4% in the burned area, while grasses increased from 28.2% in the control area to 59.4% in the burned area. Therefore, the fire has been effective in increasing grasses and reducing forbs. In general, Bromus tomentellus, Festuca ovina, Agropyron repensis and Agropyrun trichophorum due to their fire resistant and presence in the burned area are recommended for the rehabilitation of burned areas.

Forest hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) is a hardy rooting plant and therefore its propagation by conventional asexual methods is almost impossible. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of auxin and inoculation of mycorrhizal fungi on callus, rooting and vegetative traits of hazelnut cuttings.

semi hardwood cuttings were collected on July from Arasbaran forests (Makidi site). Cuttings were firstly treated with concentrations of 0, 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg L−1 IBA and then were inoculated individually with Glomus intraradices and Trichoderma harzianum fungi. Cuttings were cultured in perlite - sand medium and then they were kept in a mist system equipped greenhouse. After 70 days from planting, the percentage of callusing, rooting, root number, root dry weight, total plant dry weight, length cuttings, leaf area and Colonization were recorded.

The highest callusing (34.3 %), rooting (27.2 %), root number (2.6 n), root dry weight (0.35 g), total plant dry weight (3.39 g), length cutting (12.32 cm), leaf area (29.13 cm2) and Colonization (28.77%) was observed in cuttings that treated with IBA 2000 mg. L−1 and then inoculated with G. intraradices. Overall, it was confirmed that the hazelnut is difficult rooted via cuttings and application of IBA growth regulator is necessary for rooting of semi-hardwood cuttings plants.  

The best form its vegetative propagation is collecting cuttings from 1-year old cutting off shoots in June and treating by IBA growth regulator (2000 mg L-1) in combination with Glomus intraradices.

A quantitative method is presented to evaluate the ability of plants for rill and gully erosion control in the Moghan region in the province of Ardabil. This research was carried out during a five-year period (2016-2020). Five indicators, namely, stem density (SD), topsoil erosion-reducing potential of plant roots during the concentrated flow erosion (RSD), sediment obstruction potential (SOP), index of plant stiffness (MEI), and root cohesion (Cr) were calculated for 20 native plants of the region (SD=1.411×10-4 – 0.28, RSD=6.68×10-24 – 10.1076, SOP=8.275×10-5 – 0.696, MEI=1.69×10-6 – 27.134 N, Cr=5.432×10-4 – 34.626 Pa). Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb., Salsola dendroides Pall.,Artemisia fragrans Willd., Stipa arabica Trin. & Rupr. var. arabica, Alhagi camelorum Fisch., Verbascum stachydifome Boiss. & Buhse., Festuca ovina L., and Melica altissima L. are very appropriate species for controlling rill and gully erosion. Festuca ovina L., Stipa arabica Trin. & Rupr. var. arabica and Melica altissima L.have a distinct potential to obstruct sediment inflow into channels at the gully outlets. As each species has a particular ability in one or more of the indices, combined planting of selected plant species may be more effective in erosion control. The results of this study may be used in adjacent regions and under similar cold-semiarid and cold-arid environments.

Rhamnus pallasii is one of the most important and valuable species in Khalkhal forest area. This study aimed to determine the relationship between vegetation properties of Rhamnus pallasii with soil and physiographic factors using PCA analysis in this forest reserve. In so doing, from 1030 to 2250 m.a.s.l, 48 sample plots of square shape with an area of 400 m2, in three land forms (ridge, valley and slope) in four aspects (north, south, east and west) were selectively determined and quantitative characteristics of Rhamnus pallasii such as total height, collar diameter, crown diameter, shoot and regeneration were measured. In addition, in each sample plot, a mixture soil samples were collected from 0 to 30 cm and some of its physical and chemical properties were measured in the laboratory. In order to study the relationship between Rhamnus pallasii distribution and soil characteristics, a survey was done by principal component analysis. The results showed that the distribution range of Buckthorn varies from 1030 to 2250 m.a.s.l. In general, hillsides and valley forms with south -facing hillsides are suitable sites for this species. The highest mean of height (1.74 m), collar diameter (5.65 cm) and crown diameter (1.75 m) on slope land form and number of regeneration in sample plots (7.4) were observed on valley land form. Results from PCA analysis revealed that in the altitude range of 1030 to 2250 m.a.s.l, the soil texture, especially sand% and silt%, OC% and N% were more suitable conditions for the presence and growth of this species in valley and slope forms in the southern aspects area provided. The results of this study can be used to describe ecosystem sustainability as well as conservation and reforestations such as planting with this species and modifying the structure of deforested forests in the studied areas.

Walnut (Juglans regia) is native to Iran and is being planted in most provinces of the country. This study was performed to identify and record the walnut long-lived trees in the Ardabil province. By collecting information, using local resources, and visiting different parts of the province, 15 walnut long-lived trees were investigated. According to the results, the average diameter at breast height was 131.6 cm, the total height was 11.55 m, and the crown cover was 133.49 m2. The long-lived trees were generally distributed in an altitude range between 1038-1722 m.a.s.l. All of these trees have been planted in the province's old gardens to exploit its product. Regarding growth characteristics and age of long-live trees, while fully protecting these trees, it is possible to produce and propagate their seedlings by creating genetic reserves.

Forest reserves are a shrinking pattern of biosphere reserves in which unique and rare or endangered species grow naturally. Juniper genus is one of the few indigenous conifers of Iran with habitats in large areas of the country. However, nowadays, despite its importance, there is a declining trend that is particularly critical in areas without control and management. The purpose of the study was to investigate and quantify the inter-specific competition of juniper trees (Juniperus excelsa) with the main associated species, namely pistachio (Pistacia atlantica) and maple (Acer monspessulanum), in Kandirigh forest reserve in Ardabil Province of north-west of Iran. For this purpose, full census inventory was taken in a protected area of 13.2 hectares, and variables of DBH, total height and crown diameter and spatial coordinates of all tree species were recorded. Then, the bivariate O-ring statistic and mark correlation function (MCF) were used to evaluate the competition between the junipers with pistachio and maple. Bivariate O-ring statistic showed that most of the interactions of these three species are independent or, ultimately, at small scales are attractions. Univariate and bivariate mark correlations function also showed that the interested variables of DBH, total height and crown diameter were spatially independent. All of this is due to the lack of significant competition between juniper trees and the associated species in this forest reserve. Thus, pistachio and maple can be introduced as associated species for the reforestation and enrichment of the other juniper habitats with similar conditions.

Colutea persica is one of important and valuable species in Kandiragh forest reserve of Khalkhal. This study aimed to determine the relationship between Growth properties of Bladder Senna with soil and physiographic factors in Kandiragh forest reserve. in three land forms (ridge, valley and slope) and in four aspects (north, south, east and west) from lower to higher distribution areas sample plots, each 500 m2, were selected. Overall, 32 sample plots were used for measuring Growth characteristics; soil characteristics were studied in 12 sample plots including soil texture (clay, silt and sand), pH, Ec, N%, OC% and Caco3%. The results showed that the distribution range of Bladder Senna varies from 1350 to 1980 m.a.s.l. In general, slopes and ridge forms with south and east-facing slopes are suitable sites for this species. The highest figures of Bladder Senna individuals including height (1.75m), crown diameter (1. 81 m) and regeneration (169.N/h) on valley form and the highest number of shoot (13/11) on slope form were measured. Soil of Bladder Senna habitats is deep to semi- shallow with pH (7.4 to 8.1), Ec (0.21 to 0.39 ds/m) and with soil texture of loam to loam- sand. The PCA analysis showed that the physical properties of soil (sand, clay and silt) and Ec have an important impact on the presence of this species. So that, the presence of Bladder Senna in the southern and eastern slopes has more correlation with silt percentage.

Today, forest reserves are of great interest in protecting biological diversity (plant and animal) and preventing the extinction of many important plant and animal species. The Hatam Meshesi Forest Reserve, with an area of 195.6 hectares, located 28 kilometers west of Meshgin Shahr of Ardebil province, is one of the most valuable reserves in Iran. This forest is a part of Arasbaran forests in terms of location, climatic and habitat conditions, and is therefore very rich in plant diversity and vegetation. The most important species of this forest is Caucasian oak (Quercus macranthera Fisch. & C. A. Mey.), distributed at an altitude of 1740 to 1950 m.a.s.l. In this forest, four main forest types including pure Quercus macranthera, Quercus macranthera–Acer campetre, Quercus macranthera–Fraxinus excelsior, Crtataegus microphylla-Prunus spinosa can be distinguished. In total, 31 species of trees and shrubs, belonging to 11 families and 23 genera, have been identified, indicating a significant diversity of woody species in this forest. In recent years, the conversion of forest and rangeland use into agriculture, grazing, and cutting down trees for coal mining and the use of firewood have been influential factors in the destruction of this valuable reserve. Therefore, to reach a favorable state, the responsible organizations must pay more attention to the protection of this habitat. With attention to the conservation value of this reserve, the implementation of development programs and worthless investments aimed at attracting tourists to the region should be strictly excluded.

Long live trees are considered to be the most important herbal genetic reserves, and the importance of recognizing and preserving these resources is important both nationally and historically. The purpose of this study was to record and evaluate 41 trees, including 28 junipers and 13 wild pistachio trees, identified and measured in the Khalkhal area. Results showed that the trunk perimeter of trees recorded ranged between 1.28 to 4.21 m, and their height ranged between 4.9 to 13.4 m. The average trunk perimeter of wild pistachio and juniper was 3.17 m and 2.61 m, and the average height was 10.1 m and 8.05 m, respectively. The proper natural environment and location of these trees in the old cemetery, as well as specific beliefs, are the reasons for this tree's persistence in Khalkhal. In terms of growth characteristics and dating of long-live trees, in addition to the complete protection of these trees in the region, the restoration of the destroyed forests of Juniper and wild Pistachio in Khalkhal region is possible by creating genetic reserves (seeds of long-live trees) and seedling production.

Effects of Land form and some physical and chemical soil properties on Vegetative Characteristics of Rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia L.) in Andabil forest, Khalkhal region AbstractEffects of Land form and some physical and chemical soil properties on Vegetative Characteristics of Rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia L.) in Andabil forest, Khalkhal region Rowan is one of valuable, rare and endangered shrub species in Andabil forest reserve. This study aimed to determine the relationship between vegetation properties of Rowan with soil and physiographic factors in Andabil forest reserve. In three land forms (ridge, valley and slope) and in four aspects (north, south, east and west) sample plots, each 500 m2, were selected. Overall, 34 sample plots were used for measuring vegetative characteristics and soil characteristics including soil texture (clay, silt and sand), pH, Ec, N%, OC% and Caco3%. The results showed that the distribution range of Rowan varies from 1940 to 2540 m.a.s.l. The highest mean height (3.10m), collar diameter (9.12 cm) and crown diameter (2.08 m) were measured on valley form. Soil of Rowan habitats is deep to semi- shallow with pH (6.14 to 6.72), Ec (0.521 to 0.967 ds/m) and with soil texture of loam to clay- loam. In general, Rowan habitats in the southern and western aspects in the forms of slope and edge with light soil texture have more favorable conditions in term of quantitative characteristics for the growth of this species. Key words: Andabil forest, Habitat conditions, Principal component analysis, Rowan, Soil factors.

Caucasian whortleberry (Vaccinium arctostaphylos) is one of the most valuable medicinal shrubs in beech Forests. This study aimed at determining the relationship between vegetation properties of whortleberry with soil and landform index in Soha forest. Sample plots, each 500 m2, were selectively established in three land forms (ridge, valley and hillside) and in four geographical directions (north, south, east and west) from lower to higher distribution areas. Overall, 24 sample plots were used to measure the vegetative characteristics. Soil characteristics including soil texture (clay, silt and sand), pH, Ec, total nitrogen, soil organic carbon and calcium carbonate were also studied in 12 sample plots. The results showed that Caucasian whortleberry distribution varies from 1570 to 1940 meter above sea level. In general, hillsides and ridge forms with south and west-facing hillsides are suitable sites for this species. The highest mean of height (2.19 m), collar diameter (8.7 cm) and crown diameter (1.92 m) were observed on slope land form.  The soil of whortleberry habitats is deep to semi-shallow with pH (5.32 to 6.01), electrical conductivity (0.481 to 0.809 ds/m) and with soil texture loam to sandy- loam. The PCA analysis showed that the physical properties of soil (sand, clay and silt), pH, and soil organic carbon content have important impacts on the presence of this species. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that habitats of Caucasian whortleberry in land forms valley and hillside, and aspects of north and east with light soil texture have created favorable conditions for the growth of this species in the study area.

The study of ecological areas in Ardabil province with the aim of controlling and differentiating land use and recognizing the rangeland species type was conducted in 2010-2012. According to recent surveys, the area of ​​Ardebil province is estimated to be about1,777,736 hectares. The total lands are included: rangelands and forests about 685,707 hectares (38%), cultivated lands about 1,062,924 hectares (60%), rock and bare outcrops of about 14,628 hectares, water levels of 1,186 hectares (1%) and urban and industrial lands are about 13,291 hectares (1%). 66 rangeland types were divided into four groups in the rangelands of the province as follow: Artemisia, Astragalus, perennial grasses and Onobrychis. In addition, five individual types as Peganum, Caparis-Iris, Carex-Iris, Salsola-Poa and Trifolium-Trisetum were identified. Moreover, the forest habitats of the province are composed of eight types of Quercus–Fagus, Corylus avellana Mixed, Carpinus–Corylus, Tamarix–Salix, Quercus-Carpinus-Zelkova,, Quercustype, Pistacia atlantica subsp mutica type and Crataegus-Paliurus spina – Christi- Acer monspessulanum Mixed type. The results of this research including the area and position of natural resources types as well as vegetation map can be used as a scientific document and reference for the implementation of applied research projects by executive organizations in Ardebil Province.

     Festuca sulcata L. as a perennial grass is special to semi- steppe rangelands in alpine regions. In order to evaluate the growth quality, forage and seed yields, five extensions of this species were planted under rainfed conditions in a completely randomized block design with three replications at Samian station in Ardebil. After establishment of the seedlings, traits, such as viability percentage, crown cover, shrub height, seedling vigor, and forage and seed yields were measured from 2010 to 2014, at the end of the growing season. The data were analyzed using SAS software and comparison of the means of the evaluated traits was performed by Duncan's multiple range tests at P ≤ 0.05. The results showed that the greatest percentages of crown cover (997.77 cm2), shrub height (45.88 cm) and seed viability (100%) were belonged to Sarein-Alvaris accession. Average values of forage and seed yields were 528.58 and 93.33 kg ha-1 y-1, respectively. There was no significant difference between accessions in term of seed yield but there was a significant difference (P ≤ 0.01) between years. The average seed production in the studied ecotypes was 95.33 kg ha-1. Consequently, superior accessions of this species with great potential for foliage production can be used in the process of restoration and development of semi- steppe rangelands in alpine region.