Between nature and community: Local perceptions of local residents on the degradation of the Maâmora forest, Morocco

Abstract

The Maâmora is the largest cork grove in Morocco and even the world, home to flourishing biodiversity. It plays an important role as a natural heritage for the local inhabitants and offers many ecosystem services. However, there is deforestation caused by various factors, some caused by humans and others by nature. We aim to assess the degree of awareness of the surrounding population of the Maâmora forest regarding the impact of these factors on socioeconomic life as factors of forest degradation. To carry out this task, we used a questionnaire containing 17 items relating to the perception of the degree of degradation and overexploitation of the forest. The results of this survey indicate that more than 75% of respondents see a decrease in forest area, tree density and changes in water resources. While more than 70% of people confirm that the Maâmora forest has been overexploited due to the collection of firewood and construction, this leads to the disappearance of certain species of economic or ecological interest. Age and educational level were strongly associated with the choice of these answers, as well as the link with the forest. In response to this threat to our forest heritage, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests has recently taken actions by adopting bill 52.20 aimed at establishing the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF). This agency will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Moroccan Forests strategy 2020-2030.