Ali Dindarloo

Coastal–marine ecosystems, particularly mangrove forests, are among the main pillars of environmental sustainability, carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and the livelihoods of local communities. However, excessive sedimentation caused by human interventions and disturbances in hydrodynamic regimes poses a serious threat to the continuity of their ecological functions. The Nayband Wetland in southern Iran, especially the Bosatin Creek, has experienced intensified sedimentation and a significant decline in mangrove cover over the past two decades. The present study aimed to analyze and prioritize optimal dredging areas in the Bosatin Creek in order to protect and restore mangrove forests. This research was designed as a sequential mixed-methods (qualitative–quantitative) study. In the qualitative phase, effective criteria and indicators were identified through a systematic literature review and expert interviews and were structured into a decision tree. In the quantitative phase, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and pairwise comparisons were applied to weight and prioritize the dredging criteria and alternatives. The results indicated that tidal flow, water current, and sedimentation volume were the most influential criteria in determining optimal dredging locations. Based on the final synthesis of criteria, among the six investigated points, points 3 (0.245836), 5 (0.228598), and 4 (0.181904) received the highest priorities, respectively, while point 1 had the lowest priority. The findings of this study provide a scientific basis for decision making, executive planning, and sustainable management of the Nayband Wetland. It should be noted that this study was conducted during the years 2023 and 2024.