Abstract Protected areas are one of the main tools for the restoration of degraded ecosystems and the conservation of biodiversity. The lessons learned from the failure or success of conservation plans can be used to improve ecosystem conservation projects. This study examines the ecological success and social acceptance of Khabr National Park, Iran. Ecologically, the vertical and horizontal structures and different functions of plant communities were investigated using different criteria. Socially, acceptance of the protected area was assessed through interviews and questionnaires. The results showed that the protected area was successful in restoration of ecosystem structure, especially at 0−1 m height class. Different vegetation types showed a significant improvement in total ecosystem function inside the protected area compared to the outside (1.6–4.6 times). Social survey showed that locals especially nomadic pastorals (86 %) had a less upbeat view of the protected area establishment. There was a significant negative correlation between the income dependency upon rangelands and positive views of ecosystem protection. A majority of farmers (55 %), who were financially less dependent on ecosystems, had positive views of the protected area. Local people called for amending the laws related to the protected areas, especially the ones prohibiting livestock grazing (over 70 %). The protected area was ecologically successful, but it has failed socially and has not accepted by locals. Therefore, locals should be involved in the strategic planning phase and legislative framework concerning management and use of protected areas should be adjusted based on their socio-economic status.

中文翻译：

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评估半干旱生态系统中保护区的生态成功和社会接受度：伊朗哈布尔国家公园的社会生态案例研究

摘要 保护区是恢复退化生态系统和保护生物多样性的主要工具之一。从保护计划的失败或成功中吸取的教训可用于改进生态系统保护项目。本研究考察了伊朗哈布尔国家公园的生态成功和社会接受度。在生态学上，使用不同的标准研究了植物群落的垂直和水平结构以及不同的功能。在社会上，保护区的接受度是通过访谈和问卷来评估的。结果表明，保护区在生态系统结构恢复方面取得了成功，特别是在0-1 m高度等级。与外部相比，不同植被类型在保护区内的总生态系统功能显着改善（1.6-4.6倍）。社会调查显示，当地人尤其是游牧民（86%）对保护区建设的看法不太乐观。收入对牧场的依赖与对生态系统保护的积极看法之间存在显着的负相关。大多数在经济上对生态系统依赖程度较低的农民 (55%) 对保护区持积极态度。当地民众呼吁修改与保护区相关的法律，尤其是禁止放牧的法律（超过70%）。保护区在生态上是成功的，但在社会上却失败了，并没有被当地人接受。所以，