Effect of picnic on soil condition and species diversity of shrub and tree in Blouran forest park, Kuhdasht

In this study, the effects of recreation and conversion use of forested land to forest parks on soil physical and chemical properties followed by the biodiversity of Blouran forest park, Kuhdasht County was investigated. Three zones including non-recreation, extensive recreation and intensive recreation were chosen. In each area, 30 sample plots in a systematic random design (100 × 150 m) were established. In each plot, three soil samples were taken from 0-20 cm depth and a mixed sample was transferred to soil laboratory. For consideration of woody plants biodiversity current indices of diversity Simpson and Shannon wiener, evenness Camargo and Shannon wiener and richness with Margalef were assessed respectively. For data analysis, ANOVA and Duncan test was used. Results showed that some soil physical and chemical characteristics including pH value and bulk density of recreational areas has been increased but the amount of organic carbon, total nitrogen, absorbable phosphorous, exchangeable potassium, soil porosity, and litter depth in intensive recreational areas has been dropped. Indices of diversity, uniformity and richness in non-recreation zone had also significant differences with extensive recreation and intensive recreation zones. Thus, it is concluded that recreational activities cause high damages to forest, hence rational planning and management should be conducted for reducing these damages.