Evaluation of Geotourism for Gonabad Qasabeh Qanat: Potentials and capabilities

Abstract

This paper aims to evaluate the geotourism potential of Gonabad Qasabeh qanat as a hydrogeological and cultural-geological site in terms of geotourism, and examine the weak points, and provide solutions. The GAM evaluation model has been used to provide an evaluation based on the main values ââ(scientific-educational, scenic-aesthetic, and protection) and additional values ââ(functional and tourism). A survey was taken from 141 people, tourists and local people, combined with library studies and field visits, and scores were scientific-educational values, 3.75 out of 4; scenic/aesthetic, 2.25 out of 4; protection 3.25 out of 4; functional, 3.75 out of 6; and tourism 5.5 out of 9. The main values ââhave a score of 9.25 out of 12, and the additional values â9.25 out of 15. The GAM evaluation places the Gonabad Qasabeh qanat at the Z32 level, meaning the site has very high potential main values. Additional values have a medium level. This locality requires the attention of city and country officials and managers to improve access and increase advertising levels. Gonabad Qasabeh Qanat can sustain urban development in its native region.