Characterization of Natural Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Socioeconomic and Infrastructures for Sustainable Tourism in the National Park of Tazekka in Taza Province (Morocco)

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the diversity of natural landscapes, faunae, florae, and touristic infrastructures in Taza province and their attractiveness to visitors. Equally, we interviewed visitors and local populations on the socioeconomic activities in the study area. Field visits were realized to delimit the ecosystems, road network, and infrastructures in Taza province. Transects were used to collect faunae and florae data, while a questionnaire was used to collect demographic features and socioeconomic activities in Tazekka National Park. Obtained results showed a high diversity of ecosystems, including forests, steppes, farmlands, and aquatic systems. The documented faunae and florae were diverse with 86 avian species and 16 mammalian species. Two birds Carduelis carduelis and Streptopelia turtur arenicola were classified as vulnerable, while Neophron percnopterus was classified as an endangered species. Two mammals Macaca sylvanus and Cervus elaphus barbarus were endangered. The road network was advanced with four types of roads (highway, national, regional, and provincial) and hotel infrastructures (hotels, restaurants, diesel stations) were diverse and well distributed in each corner of the area. The availability of natural resources and well-developed infrastructures are suggested to support sustainable activities such as ecotourism, which are expected to add income to local populations. In fact, field interviews showed that the area, principally Tazekka National Park was visited by national and international tourists, which creates jobs for local residents. Equally, many other activities such as agriculture, pastoralism, transportation, and commerce were recorded among the inhabitants. Therefore, more advanced research is needed to characterize new ecosystems that deserve tourist visits and how to balance between human activities and the sustainability of natural resources.