A B S T R A C T
Wetlands are among the most critical ecosystems worldwide, playing a pivotal role in preserving biodiversity and providing water resources for neighboring communities. Accordingly, this study seeks to explore farmers’ lived experiences to gain deeper insights into the reciprocal interactions between humans and their environment, with a particular focus on the Bisheh Dalan Wetland, and to elucidate the responsibilities and necessary actions for its protection.To capture the lived experiences of farmers in coexistence with the wetland, the study adopted a qualitative phenomenological approach and employed snowball (chain-referral) sampling. Participants were selected based on their direct interactions with the wetland and their willingness to articulate those experiences. Data collection was conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Interview data were analyzed following Colaizzi’s seven-step method, leading to the extraction of 631 significant statements, 689 concepts, and 222 categories, which were synthesized into 17 core themes. Findings indicated that farmers perceived a marked deterioration in the wetland’s condition compared to the past. Furthermore, farmers’ perceptions analyzed across five domains: experiences, definitions, memories, expectations, and behaviors resulted in the identification of 42 recurring themes. Given the ecological and socio-economic importance of the Bisheh Dalan Wetland for farmers and local communities, urgent measures are required for its restoration. Such efforts necessitate the active collaboration of all stakeholders, including farmers, governmental agencies, environmental experts, and civil society organizations.
Extended Abstract
Introduction
Wetlands, as essential ecosystems, play a crucial role in community development and in enhancing environmental quality. These ecosystems are highly vulnerable to environmental changes and serve as vital resources for both human populations and wildlife. The first step toward wetland conservation is to understand the nature of human–environment interactions. This entails analyzing the impacts of human activities on these ecosystems, implementing appropriate conservation strategies, and educating local communities on the ecological significance of wetlands. Accordingly, the present study investigates farmers’ lived experiences to develop a deeper understanding of the reciprocal relationship between humans and wetlands and to clarify the responsibilities and actions required for the protection of the Bisheh Dalan Wetland.

Methodology
This study is applied in purpose, descriptive-analytical in approach, and qualitative in nature. The research began with a review of theoretical foundations related to the Bisheh Dalan Wetland in Lorestan Province, followed by a qualitative approach involving fieldwork to collect the lived experiences of local residents. The primary method of data collection was semi-structured interviews with local farmers who had direct experience with the wetland and were willing to share their perspectives. Purposive sampling was employed and continued until theoretical saturation was reached, yielding a total of 18 interviews. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for analysis using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method. The data were extracted, conceptualized, and coded through iterative readings, which enabled thematic categorization to illuminate various dimensions of the phenomenon under investigation.This thematic analysis is grounded in phenomenological epistemology and aims to uncover the essence of participants’ lived experiences. Ethical principles were strictly observed throughout the research, with particular attention to maintaining confidentiality and securing informed consent from all participants.

Results and Discussion
The thematic analysis resulted in the identification of 631 significant statements, 689 conceptual codes, and 222 subcategories. These subcategories encompassed farmers’ experiences, definitions, memories, behaviors, and expectations related to the wetland and their broader environmental interactions. This classification was organized around five dimensions of farmers’ perceptions, grounded in a phenomenological framework.The findings indicated that participants recalled the former economic significance of the wetland for the region and perceived its natural condition as more favorable in the past. At present, a marked decline in conservation efforts and attention was observed. Participants recalled past experiences of more effective water management and maintenance practices, which had contributed to the ecological health of the wetland. In contrast, inadequate contemporary management has diminished the utilization of wetland resources by local villagers. In terms of self-definitions, participants reported that their economic and livelihood conditions were more favorable in the past, whereas they currently face more adverse circumstances. Regarding expectations, participants expressed hope for the restoration and improvement of the wetland’s condition. Overall, villagers currently engage in less sustainable practices related to water extraction and land use compared to the past.

Conclusion
Industrial development has significantly degraded ecosystems, placing environmental protection at the forefront of global priorities. Wetlands, in particular, demand sustainable management owing to their critical ecological functions. The findings indicate that despite the growing discourse around ecocentric perspectives, most farmers living near the Bisheh Dalan Wetland predominantly adopt an anthropocentric worldview. They tend to value the wetland chiefly for its economic utility, rather than recognizing its ecological significance. Despite Bisheh Dalan’s rich biodiversity, it faces multiple challenges, including inadequate conservation practices, ineffective water management, and unauthorized agricultural activities. Addressing these challenges requires strategic planning and active community engagement. Adherence to conservation principles and the implementation of sustainable water use practices are essential to maintaining ecological balance. Key strategies should encompass habitat restoration, environmental education, and the formulation of robust environmental policies. Promoting alternative and sustainable livelihoods may alleviate pressure on natural resources, while collaborative governance structures can foster deeper community involvement. Finally, integrating scientific research with indigenous and local knowledge systems can yield more effective and culturally appropriate conservation strategies that support long-term ecological sustainability.

Funding
This research received financial support from Yasouj University, which covered the doctoral dissertation expenses of the first author.

Authors’ Contribution
Author 1: Responsible for sample preparation, data collection, data analysis, and initial drafting of the manuscript.
Author 2: Primary dissertation supervisor; contributed to research design, oversaw all stages of the study, and was involved in the revision, editing, and finalization of the manuscript.
Author 3: Co-supervisor of the dissertation; contributed to the review and validation of findings and participated in manuscript revision and finalization.
Author 4: Dissertation advisor; reviewed and revised the manuscript.

Conflict of Interest
The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest.

Acknowledgments
The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for Education and Graduate Studies at Yasouj University for providing both financial and institutional support for this research. We also extend our appreciation to the peer reviewers and scientific advisors whose constructive feedback greatly contributed to improving the quality of this work.