In the heart of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, a silent transformation is unfolding, reshaping the ancient oasis agriculture that has sustained communities for centuries. A recent study, published in Scientific Reports, led by Youness Boubou from the Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics (OPATS) at the University of Kassel, Germany, sheds light on how rural-urban interactions are altering these delicate ecosystems and the livelihoods they support.
The oasis of Tizi N’Oucheg, nestled in the High Atlas Mountains, has long been a bastion of self-sufficiency, producing food grains and livestock. However, the tide is turning. Improved infrastructure and better connections to urban centers have led to a decline in agricultural activities and an increased dependence on remittances and tourism. This shift is not just about changing livelihoods; it’s about the future of sustainable agriculture in the region.
The study, which analyzed land use and cropping patterns over 50 years, reveals a stark decline in cultivated land—from 13 hectares to a mere 6.8 hectares. This reduction is accompanied by a shift from traditional, labor-intensive multiple cropping and natural fertilization to monocropping of barley and increased use of mineral fertilization. This transformation, while providing immediate benefits, poses significant long-term challenges.
“The challenging geography of the oasis increased the hardship of practicing traditional agriculture,” Boubou explains, “and therefore largely determines the response of the community to rural-urban transformation.” The increased reliance on urban centers for financial support further complicates the situation, as traditional, sustainable agricultural practices face potential demise.
The research, which utilized GIS mapping and NDVI time series analysis, highlights the need for adaptive policies. The use of historical aerial images, multispectral satellite images, and drone-based surveys provided a comprehensive view of the changes, offering valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders.
As the region grapples with these changes, the findings of this study could shape future developments in sustainable oasis agriculture. The need for policies that support rural communities and promote sustainable practices is more pressing than ever. The energy sector, which has significant commercial interests in the region, must also consider the environmental and socio-economic impacts of its operations.
The study, published in Scientific Reports, underscores the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology to ensure the sustainability of oasis agriculture. As Boubou notes, “Our data highlight the increased financial dependence of rural populations on urban centers and the demise of traditional, sustainable agriculture in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains if policies on agricultural development are not adapted to rural circumstances.”
This research is a call to action, urging stakeholders to recognize the delicate balance between development and sustainability. The future of oasis agriculture in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains hangs in the balance, and the decisions made today will shape the landscape for generations to come.