EVALUATING THE FOREST LANDSCAPE PERFORMANCE EFFICIENCY FOR FOREST UTILIZATION IN ZAKHO POPLAR STANDS
This study employs a Multiple Regression Analysis using SPSS software to explore the diverse factors influencing landscape performance efficiency at recreational amenity sites (Y), depending on Structural equation modelling (SEM) using the Travel Cost Method (TCM) in Zakho Poplar stands. The landscape attributes were meticulously collected through field surveys conducted on May 5, 2023, utilizing Garmin GPS S62. The model integrates various predictors, including independent variables, such as: poplar coverage extent, agricultural land usage area, proportions of different elements within the site, underlying topological structure, and visitor-related metrics. The results highlight a substantial and significant relationship between these predictors and the dependent variable, shedding light on the complex interplay between landscape attributes and site performance. The model's robustness is underscored by its high r-squared adjusted value of 0.91, indicating strong explanatory power. Additionally, ANOVA analysis confirms the collective significance of the predictors. The coefficients within the model elucidate the nature and strength of each predictor's impact on the dependent variable. The study's findings emphasize the positive influence of factors such as poplar and agricultural coverage, as well as topological configuration, all contributing positively to site performance. Conversely, a higher ratio of elements within the area is linked to reduced performance. Furthermore, visitor volume emerges as a pivotal and positive factor. Overall, this study provides valuable insights with actionable and potential to enhance the landscape performance of recreational amenity sites. Furthermore, it significantly advances the understanding of the intricate relationships between distinct landscape attributes and performance outcomes in this context.
landscape performance, unobservable variables, Structural equation model (SED), Zakho stands, Populus nigra L