HIBAPRESS – Agadir
In a move reflecting a renewed trend towards environmental innovation, the Souss-Massa region hosted a field experiment for a modern afforestation technology based on the "Waterbox" system, within the framework of implementing the "Morocco's Forests 2020-2030" strategy.
This field visit was led by the region's Wali, Said Amzazi, and the Director-General of the National Agency for Water and Forests, Abderrahim Homy, where they observed the effectiveness of this new technology in addressing climate challenges in the Sidi Boushab reforestation area in the municipality of Imskaroud. The adoption of the "Waterbox" comes as a practical solution to the problem of water scarcity and consecutive years of drought, which threatens the success of afforestation programs, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. This technology relies on a smart device that collects rainwater and dew, then distributes it gradually and accurately to the roots of plants, ensuring rational water consumption and reducing the rate of evaporation. This system is characterized by its ability to create a suitable environment for the growth of seedlings, by protecting the roots from high temperatures, and stimulating them to extend towards the depths, which enhances their ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions and provides them with continuous irrigation that adapts to their natural needs. The field experiments carried out in the region have shown remarkable results, as the survival rate of seedlings exceeded 95 percent, with a clear improvement in growth, compared to a noticeable decrease in the amount of water used. These results are of particular importance for sensitive species such as the Argan tree, which faces increasing challenges due to climate change. In the context of generalizing this experiment, the National Agency for Water and Forests has begun to develop a local model of the "Waterbox", which contributes to reducing costs and adapting the technology to the environmental characteristics of Morocco, as well as facilitating its spread on a wider scale. This initiative has, to date, enabled the afforestation of more than 1,200 hectares in the region. This step falls within the efforts to modernize the forest sector, in line with the strategic vision launched by Mohammed VI, which relies on integrating innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency of afforestation, protect ecosystems, and strengthen their ability to adapt to rapid climate changes.
