Monitoring and analyzing social networks and identifying key actors for sustainable management of natural resources

Social network analysis and identification of key actors in social systems is one of the necessary measures for the sustainable management of natural resources. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the social capital, status, and relationships of actors in the information exchange network and their structural pattern and to identify key actors in the three villages of Estaj, Borzu, and Izi in Sabzevar. For this purpose, first, qualitative studies of survey approach, direct observation method, and target population interview were identified. Based on the results of calculating the intermediate centrality index, the degree of input, output, and proximity in the trust matrix and participation in irrigation in the three villages studied, the role and position of actors were identified, and key actors were identified in these indexes. The results showed key actors have a high social status, authority, and influence and play a role of control and intermediary in the village. As a result, they can as social power and local leaders play a key role in the decision-making and networking processing, coordinating individuals, communicating with others, accessing resources and information, and speeding up their exchange, resolving disputes and conflicts, trust in the network and thus increase social capital. Increasing the amount of social capital as the key management tool will lead to the establishment of sustainable management of natural resources.