Impact of Dust Storm on Agricultural Production in Iran

One of the environmental concerns during the past decade is dust pollutant. This phenomenon is extensively known around the globe. In Iran, this destructive phenomenon has created serious problems among environmental policy-makers in general and agricultural producers in specific. Kermanshah Province is located near Iraq, a neighboring country in west part of Iran. It is believed that Iraq is mostly blamed for developing dust into different parts of Iran. The impact of dust on agriculture is not known. Specifically, it is not known how agricultural producers in Sarpol-e-Zahab Township in Kermanshah Province are affected by dust phenomenon. Thus, the purpose of this qualitative study was to determine the impact of dust on agricultural production. Using purposeful sampling, farmers and agricultural specialist as well as natural resources experts participated in this study. Deep interview as well as observation and audio recording were used to collect data. Grounded theory approach was used to analyze the data. Results revealed that dust has impacted orchard farmers, bee farmers, rose and grape growers differently. Results also revealed that orchard farmers and bee farmers were affected most by dust storm in the region. Overall, dust is a phenomenon that can only be mitigated if farmers are to adapt effective strategies.