Erosion and sediment transport processes in The Middle Atlas (Morocco)

In a context of climate change and agricultural practices, increasing population and water needs, together with a better understanding of the variability of solid erosion based on developments and land use is essential for application of more effective policies towards reducing land degradation and thus to better meet the objective of sustainable development. The dam Bin El Ouidane is a strategic dam for Morocco; it helps in maintaining national food security as it ensures the irrigation of large irrigated area in Morocco (69,400 ha), potable water supply for major cities of the region and the production of hydroelectric power. The Béni Mellal-Khnifra region is an agricultural region. Its economy is largely based on agricultural production. The latter is under the control of climatic conditions and availability of resources (water and soil). Understanding the dynamics between these different components, agricultural resources will be better managed.

The main aim of the project is increasing the scientific knowledge on hydrology and sediment transport in Bin El Ouidane River basin, applying spatial analysis of variables related to the soil erodibility, human / climate / environment relationships and links with silting of the dam. Likewise, offering training courses to young researchers including PhD and PostDoc students, providing mobility for Moroccan researchers to the UIB, so they can work with scientific equipment available in its laboratories.