A master’s thesis at the College of Agriculture focused on “Studying the Role of Implementing Landscape Sustainability Standards in the Establishment of the Central Park for the City of Baqubah

The College of Agriculture at the University of Diyala discussed a master’s thesis titled “Studying the Role of Implementing Landscape Sustainability Standards in the Establishment of the Central Park for the City of Baqubah.” The study, presented by student Nidar Adnan Muteb, involved conducting a field survey, collecting soil samples from the study site, analyzing them, and gathering information about the nearby water source. The data obtained were analyzed and modeled in geospatial maps. Additionally, a questionnaire was prepared for the residents of Baqubah regarding the implementation of sustainability standards in the establishment of the central park.

The study aimed to plan and design a central park in the city that aligns with the environmental conditions of Baqubah, thereby enhancing awareness of the importance of landscape sustainability among local residents, improving the quality of the environment, promoting biodiversity, and ultimately providing new job opportunities. The objectives achieved by the study indicate that examining the role of implementing landscape sustainability standards in the establishment of the central park for the city of Baqubah could enhance the quality of life for the community and raise environmental awareness by involving the community in the social process of establishing the central park and interacting with nature.

The study concluded with several findings, including the urgent need for Baqubah to have a park that meets the needs of its residents and nearby cities. The establishment of a central park would help maintain ecological balance and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and climate vulnerability.

The study recommends the following:

1. The current site designated for the park is insufficient and requires larger areas to accommodate the needs of the city’s residents, especially since the current site was previously a camp and is largely unoccupied.

2. Continuous adjustments should be made to the proposed master plan if the municipality allocates additional areas in Baqubah.

3. The establishment of an environmental filtration station is advised to utilize the wastewater from Baqubah, converting a portion of it for irrigation of the park after proper treatment to ensure it is safe for irrigation and for the safety of visitors, especially considering the proximity of the Baqubah sewage station to the park site.

4. Achieving complete sustainability for the park site through the implementation of sustainability standards, coupled with ongoing monitoring and evaluation processes.

5. The replication of successful experiences in establishing sustainable parks, particularly arid and desert parks in neighboring countries to Iraq.