Journal of Scientific Research and Studies Vol. 5(4), pp. 73-87, April, 2018 ISSN 2375-8791 Copyright © 2018 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article http://www.modernrespub.org/jsrs/index.htm MRRRPPP

Full Length Research Paper

The geomorphological heritage of the and Sidi Moussa lagoons: assessment and promotion for a sustainable human and socio-economic development

Mounia Khoukhouchi*, Ezzoura Errami, Najwa Hassou and El Mehdi Irzan

Geodynamics, Geo-education and Geological Heritage Research Group, Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences, University Chouaib Doukkali, B.P. 20, 24000 , .

*Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]

Accepted 10 April, 2018

The Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex has a high landscape value and constitutes one of the most important coastal ecosystems on the Moroccan Atlantic coast. In addition to their endemic flora and fauna, these sites have a crucial role in the overwintering of several migratory bird species. Also, this complex is surrounded by several cultural and religious sites. The wealth of this lagoon complex motivated us to evaluate its geomorphosites in order to promote nature tourism for sustainable human development. To achieve this goal, we have used a method for scientific, didactic and additional parameters assessment, as well as the attribution of different scores. The geomorphosites assessment revealed an important scientific value for both lagoons of Oualidia-Sidi Moussa complex, but it was negatively impacted by the integrity criterion of the lagoons. Generally, the visiting conditions are good for both sites. Moreover, a significant number of economic activities are developed in the two lagoons including oyster farming, agriculture and tourism, which make it a considerable socio-economic interest area for the riverside populations. However, the intense and uncontrolled exploitation of the natural resources of these lagoons puts them at risk. The identification of the geomorphological elements of the Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons that have been realized will help to highlight the potentially exceptional sites at the scale of the lagoon complex in terms of culture, education and aesthetics, as well as on the economic and social levels and therefore, the elaboration of policies and preservation planning.

Key words: Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex, geomorphosite, Morocco, sustainable human development, assessment, preservation.

INTRODUCTION

Geologically, the Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex wetlands are protected by the Ramsar Convention, an belongs to the large structural unit of the western plateau, intergovernmental treaty adopted on February 2 nd , 1971, precisely to the large morphological unit of which provides the national action and international Sahel. The subsoil of this unit consists mainly of cooperation framework for the conservation and the consolidated marine limestone sands from the age of rational use of wetlands. Plio-quaternary deposited on the bedrock of cretaceous The wetlands constitute an exceptional heritage by age. This region is characterized by a high biodiversity fulfilling the different functions of feeding, reproduction and geodiversity, which constitute an opportunity for and shelter for many animal and plant species, and an sustainable socio-economic development. important area of breeding for migratory birds (Skinner et In general, lagoons have ecological benefits that make al., 1994). These areas contribute to the flood risk them highly productive ecosystems. Thus, many prevention by protecting the coasts from maritime 74 J. Sci. Res. Stud.

influences and ensure the water purification from their 2016, 2018). drainage basin through physical, geochemical and Geoheritage has been developed rapidly in the last biological mechanisms. Some wetlands benefit from years through geoparks creation. Referring to the African groundwater supply through intensive exchanges with Geoparks Network (AGN), a Geopark is a territory where phreatic zone. On the other hand, the wetlands support the geological and geomorphological heritage associated various economic and recreational activities such as with all other heritage components is used to promote the shellfish farming, fishing and recreation. sustainable human and socio-economic development In Moroccan coastal aquifers, the pumped irrigation (Errami et al., 2015), by first going through the causes marine intrusion formation which decrease the assessment of geomorphosites, which are defined as water quality in Doukkala-Abda plio-quaternary and being: a relief part perceived and exploited by human that cretaceous aquifer. The effect of this intrusion is very low allows us to better understand the evolution of the climate compared to other areas in Morocco and Africa (Fadili, and reconstruct the history of the earth (Panizza and 2014). Piacente, 1993; Grandgirard, 1997; Panizza, 2001; The wetlands form landscape structures such as Reynard, 2004). This assessment process incorporates swamps and lagoons and participate in the intangible besides of the scientific values, the additional values that dimension as a landscape entity. The landscape give new perspectives in the field of geoheritage structures characterization provide an understanding of conservation and management. physical, functional and dynamic relationship of wetlands Our paper aims to promote nature tourism for with the territory and thus to understand its evolution and sustainable human development in the lagoon complex how it is perceived. Oualidia-Sidi Moussa. To achieve this goal, we have Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons constitute worked on the Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex landscapes which offer varied natural wealth with a assessment based on the method of Reynard et al. remarkable fauna and flora exploited by the local (2016), which focused on scientific, additional and use population. They play a major role in the overwintering values. This work represents a part of a study that is and passage of several migratory bird species, and this is generalized throughout the Doukkala-Abda region. why they have several protection designations: permanent hunting reserve in 1984, a Site of Biological and Ecological Priority Interest (SIBE) in 1996, an PRESENTATION OF THE STUDY AREA Important Bird Conservation Area (ZICO) in 2001, a Ramsar site in 2005, and an Emerald site in 2010. Geographical framework The concept of landscape is quite complex, taking into account both objective aspects of a functional, technical The Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex is located and scientific, and subjective aspects that are relevant to along the Atlantic coast of Morocco. It consists of 2 the perception of each person (Rimbert, 1973; lagoons (Oualidia lagoon and Sidi Moussa lagoon), 4 Grandgirard, 1999; Reynard, 2009). Based on this swamp (Oualidia, El Merga, El Hotba, Sidi Moussa) and 7 approach, the geomorphological landscape is defined as Salines (Oualidia, El Merga, Sidi Brahim, El Hotba, Sidi a portion of earth's relief, seen, perceived, and valued in M' barek, Sidi Moussa and Sidi Abed). the sense of the value assignment by the human The Oualidia lagoon (latitude: 32°47’28" N, longitude: (Reynard, 2005). 8°58’00" W) is situated in the province, 76 In recent years, the evaluation of geomorphological km from the south of El Jadida city, while the Sidi Moussa landscape reposed on methods that focused on the lagoon (latitude: 32°59’49" N, longitude: 8°44’13" W) is scientific aspect of the sites (Rivas et al., 1997; located in the , 37 km from the south of Grandgirard, 1999; Bonachea et al., 2005; Coratza and El Jadida and about 15 km from the south Jorf Lasfar Giusti, 2005). Moreover, other methods have been industrial park. According to the new administrative developed; these methods combine the assessment of division of Morocco adopted in 2015, both lagoons central scientific value with several additional values such belong to the - region. as cultural, ecological and economic values or the use The Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex extends and management values (Panizza and Piacente, 1993, over the territory of 4 rural communities, Sidi Abed, Ouled 2003; Bruschi and Cendrero, 2005; Pralong, 2005; Aïssa, Ouled Ghanem (El Jadida circle) and Oualidia Serrano and Gonzalez Trueba, 2005; Zouros, 2007; ( circle) (Table 1). It covers a total area of 100 Pereira and Pereira, 2010; Pereira et al., 2007; Grangier, km 2. This lagoon complex ranges between 32°40'-33°06' 2013; Brilla, 2016; Reynard et al., 2007, 2012, 2016). N and 8°50' W. It is an interdunary depression bounded These evaluation methods have been used for regional to the east by the cliff and the west by a dune cord and national inventories in order to exploit their results in extending between Sidi Abed village in the north and proposing of management alternatives to promote this Oualidia village in the south separating the lagoons from geoheritage. There is presently no consensus on a the (Figure 1). unique and universal method (Reynard, 2009; Brilha, The lagoon complex is located in a Mediterranean Khoukhouchi et al. 75

Table 1. Number of inhabitants, number of Douars and socio-economic activities of riparian rural commune of Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex. According to the general census of 2004 (High Commission for Planning, Regional Directorate of Doukala-Abda (Morocco), 2014; *DTP of the rural commune Ouled Ghanem, 2010; *PTD of the rural commune Sidi Abed, 2010).

Number of Number of Municipalities Socio-economic activities inhabitants Douars Fishing (43.3%), agriculture (33.4%), handicrafts (5.3%), 18% for other Sidi Abed 20854 56 activities (farming, commerce …).

Oulad Aïssa 21779 51 Traditional fishing, seaweed harvesting, agriculture and cattle breeding.

Agriculture is the main activity based at 52% on cereals, breeding (sheep, 22342 37 cattle, and horses), aviculture, fishing, production and sale of salt in the raw state, and small local trade.

Oualidia 15433 13 Oyster farming, fishing and tourism.

Agriculture, breeding, fishing, tourism, seaweed harvesting, production and Total 80408 157 commercialization of salt.

*PTD : Participatory Territorial Diagnosis

Figure 1. Geographical and geological framework of Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons (Geologic map of Morocco, Saadi et al., 1985, scale 1/1 000 000). 76 J. Sci. Res. Stud.

Figure 2. Stratigraphic column of the main geological formations found on Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons (Carruesco, 1989).

climate zone (Carruesco, 1989). Over a period of 20 The Middle Hauterivian is constituted by Dridrate years, from 1976 to 1997, the average annual rainfall was limestone and is generally cracked and karstified (Roch, 394.8 mm. 50% of the rainfall falls in winter, while it is 1930; Gigout, 1951; Witam, 1988), whereas the lower exceptional with 1% in summer. The average annual Hauterivian outcrops along the Jorf Lasfar cliffs, Cape temperature is 17.6°C (El Hamoumi et al., 2003). Beddouza and on some islets in Had Oulad Aïssa and Tnine Rharbia villages. It consists of the "Safi clay" or "brown clay" formation which is composed by marl and Geological context gypsiferous clays, with intercalations of very fossiliferous sandstone reddish limestones (Carruesco, 1989). The Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex belongs to the The late Jurassic is the base of Beddouza Cape cliff structural unit of the Western Meseta (Carruesco, 1989). (Ouadia, 1998). It consists of limestone and yellowish The substratum of the lagoons is composed by limestone marl with clay beds and some levels of gypsum consolidated dunes of plio-quaternary age, elongated (Ferré and Ruhard, 1975) (Figure 2). NE-SW parallel to the Atlantic coast, covering rocks of The tectonic history of Doukkala-Abda region has been Hauterivian age (Lower Cretaceous) (Figure 1). The marked by Hercynian orogeny followed by atlasic Quaternary consists of loamy sand, sandy and sandstone orogeny, which gave rise to the present forms. formations. Pliocene is composed of marine deposits of The individualization of Doukkala basin started from the sandy limestone nature consisting mainly of shell and upper Devonian, which was marked by tectonic instability sand debris (Carruesco, 1989; Ouadia, 1998; Zourarah, in a transtensive regime (Piqué, 1987). 2002). This pull-apart basin has been traced with The upper Hauterivian is divided into two parts; the Carboniferous material; thanks to the operation of the upper part is composed of sandy levels that play a crucial NNE-SSW shear area separating the coastal Meseta, role in the drainage phenomena of the infiltration water part of the coastal mole, from the rest of the Meseta. and the phreatic zone formation in the lagoons Doukkala basin experiences the formation of (Carruesco, 1989). The lower part is composed by a synschistic open folds (anticlinals and synclinals) with compact and homogeneous red clay formation (Roch, kilometric amplitude of NNE-SSW to ENE-WSW direction 1930; Gigout, 1951; Witam, 1988). (Michard, 1976) most often spilled westward where the Khoukhouchi et al. 77

Figure 3. Stages of Oualidia lagoon evolution during Holocene (Ballouche and Carruesco, 1986).

NW is associated with a low level regional coastal dunes (Carruesco, 1989; Maanan, 2003). metamorphosis. This formation results from a low The Oualidia lagoon was created during the Mellahian intensity shortening during the lower Westphalian age transgression (Middle Holocene); before 8000 years B.P. hercynian tightening oriented NW-SE (Piqué, 1987). The sea level was about 20 or 30 m lower than today These forms of folds are associated with faults in NS when the morphological framework of the lagoon was set and EW direction and low penetration schistosity up. (Ouadia, 1998; Fadili, 2014). Distensive atlastic tectonics Around 8000-6500 years B. P., during the Mellahian allowed the replay of the submeridian faults between the transgression (flandrian), the upwelling began the Triassic and Cretaceous (Ferré, 1969). However, it is consolidated spit and started the creation of passes that above all the Neogene that has established the current would allow it to invade the Oulja. relief. The secondary lands that exist near to these faults The occupation of the depression was carried out are slightly undulating or exceptionally pleated, flexured according to slight fluctuations which led to the and bankrupt. Plio-quaternary is slightly affected by establishment of the lagoon system with the beginning of pliocene movements, giving rise to anticlinals and the salt marsh formation. Around 6500 years B.P., the faults of N-S oriented (Ferré and Ruhard, 1975). development of the regional vegetation was recorded as an "oleaster and pistachio". Around 6500-4500 years B.P, the transgression Geomorphological context continued and reached its maximum at a level of + 2 m compared to the current one. Parking at this high sea The Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex belongs to the level was demonstrated up to 4500 years B. P. geomorphological unit of Doukkala Sahel (El Hamoumi et The current situation results from a slight regression al., 2003) consisting of an alternation of depressions and and filling of the lagoon. Minor transgressive oscillations consolidated dunes. The elongated shape of the two marked this regression so that the lagoon takes after its lagoons, Oualidia and Sidi Moussa, is conditioned by the current morphology (Ballouche and Carruesco, 1986; morphology of the interdunary depression of the "Oulja" Carruesco et al., 1984) (Figure 3). situated between the consolidated continental and Four morphological units can be distinguished in the 78 J. Sci. Res. Stud.

Figure 4. Geomorphology of the Oualidia lagoon.

Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons as follows. upstream end of the main channel (Carruesco, 1989).

Morphological units of Oualidia lagoon Morphological units of Sidi Moussa lagoon

Oualidia lagoon is comprised of four morphological units Sidi Moussa lagoon is constituted by the following (Figure 4), these are as follows: morphological units (Figure 5):

(i) The Channels and intertidal zone: there is a main (i) The Channels and intertidal zone: the principal channel with a depth of 0.5 to 2 m, an average width of channel with a depth of 5 to 6 m, an average width of 300 70 m and a length of 6.5 km, 75% of which is submerged m and a length of 5 km winds through a schorre and in low water. This channel which winds in the middle of a doubled sometimes by secondary channel. This channel salt marsh is sometimes doubled by a secondary channel is grafted with a network of very narrow dendritic (Carruesco, 1989). channels invaded at high tide (Maanan, 2003). (ii) The spit: It separates the lagoon from the Atlantic (ii) The spit: it shows a barrier against marine actions Ocean. (swell) and constitutes from the detrital limestone of plio- (iii) The passes: the lagoon is equipped by a main quaternary age (Maanan, 2003; Maanan et al., 2004). channel with a width of 122 m, which is active during the (iii) The passes: only one pass exists with a width of 127 year and a secondary channel with a width of 60 m, m. Sidi Moussa lagoon is characterized by the existence which is active only during high tides. of ribs relatively different on each side of the pass. The (iv) The salterns: the water of pan evaporation comes NE coast is rocky while SW coast is a sandy arrow. from decantation tanks filled at high tide by a rudimentary (iv) The salterns: they are filled artificially from the lock system that accompanies a levee built at the lagoon by seawater pumps. Salt works are launched in Khoukhouchi et al. 79

Figure 5. Geomorphology of the Sidi Moussa lagoon.

March and salt mining takes place in summer (El Integrity, Representativeness, rareness, and Hamoumi et al., 2003). Paleogeographical Value. It was evaluated both qualitatively and numerically by calculating the average of its criteria. METHODOLOGY The additional values were divided into three parts: Ecological value, Aesthetic value, and Cultural value. The two lagoons of Oualidia-Sidi Moussa complex were These values were also subdivided into subcriteria. The characterized by different environmental and socio- scores attributed a range from 0 for a null value to 1 for a economic conditions and parameters. This difference very high value. results from the situation of lagoons that are not Due to the difficulty of assessing cultural and ecological geographically connected. For this reason, both lagoons values by geoscientists and the subjectivity of aesthetic have been considered as independent entities in our value assessment, the quantitative assessment of assessment process. additional values was optional. Regarding the tourism Firstly, we have analyzed the published works of and educational potential parameter of geomorphosite, it interest in the study of complex region in order to make a was only assessed qualitatively. preliminary inventory. Subsequently, we carried out field missions to collect and complete the data. To evaluate both geomorphosites, we used the RESULTS assessment method of the Geographical Institute of the University of Lausanne (Reynard et al., 2016). This Scientific value method consists of evaluating the scientific value, additional values and use values. It is based on The four criteria that make it possible to characterize the evaluation sheets organized into four parts: Scientific scientific value do not have the same influence on the values, Additional values, Visiting conditions, and final score (Tables 2 and 6). The relatively low integrity for Education interest. Oualidia (0.5) and for Sidi Moussa (0.25) has the greatest The scientific value comprises of four sub-criteria: effect on the scientific value of the two sites. In the 80 J. Sci. Res. Stud.

Table 2. Assessment of the scientific value of Oualidia geomorphosite.

Subcriteria Evaluation Score - The lagoon is contaminated in some places by metallic and microbiological pollution due to domestic and agricultural activities that led to the classification of the Integrity lagoon in zone B. (Zourarah et al., 2007; Hassou et al., 2014). 0.5 - Surface water can cause salinization of the aquifer (Kaïd Rassou, 2009). The rocks are eroded by the action of the waves.

- The site is a representative of the form of the interdunary depression that characterizes the morphological unity of the Doukkala Sahel. Representativeness - The Oualidia caves are the results of marine erosion; they represent the karst 0.75 geomorphology of the region whose structure is marked by a frequency of karst landscapes (Ouadia et al., 2008).

The site has exceptional features (morphological units: passes, channels, spit, salt Rareness evaporation ponds), but not unique in the reference area (Sidi Moussa lagoon has the 0.75 same characteristics).

Palaeogeographical The fine sediments are an interesting indicator of climate change. The study of old channel position or the deposits nature can provide precise information about the 0.75 Value stages and conditions of the lagoon formation and evolution.

Scientific value 0.69

Table 3. Assessment of the additional values of Oualidia geomorphosite.

Criteria Evaluation Score Value Fucus lutarius and Fucus axillaris are two algae found in Morocco only in the Ecological impact 0.75 Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons (El Hamoumi et al., 2003). Ecological The site has been an integral part of a permanent hunting reserve since 1984. At a value (ECOL) national level, it was classified as a Biological and Ecological Interest Site (BEIS) in = 0.88 Protected site 1 1996. It has been identified as an Important Bird Area. The site has been of international interest under the Ramsar Convention since 2005.

The site is very clear and can be seen from several angles. However, some points View points 0.75 of view are hindered by constructions.

Aesthetic The contrasts of color are very marked between the golden yellow sand, the green Contrasts, vertical value of the surrounding vegetation, the turquoise blue of the lagoon waters, and the development and immaculate whiteness of the waves foam. 0.75 (ESTH) = 0.75 space The vertical development is very weak. On the other hand, the space is clearly structuration structured by this lagoon.

Religious The site is of religious importance. The marabouts around the lagoon, especially 0.75 importance Sidi Daoud marabout is located on the dune separating the lagoon from the sea.

Historical The site includes the Oualidia Kasbah, which has been used for commercial activities and coastal surveillance of the Doukkala, Royal Palace of Mohammed V importance 0.75 and Oualidia caves visited by national and international tourists, especially during

the summer months. Cultural value - A Marie-Blanche Papoz - Bandet e-book entitled "Remla la maison des sables" (CULT) = 0.75 Artistic or literary cited the Oualidia lagoon. importance - Photos of the lagoon were taken by national and international tourists and 0.75 enthusiasts.

Geohistorical - Demonstration of the geomorphological evolution process of coastal lagoons. 0.5 importance - There is no known theory.

Khoukhouchi et al. 81

Table 3. Contd..

- The site is a source of income for the local population, but it is threatened by anthropogenic activity such us fishing, agriculture activities that may deplete it. The oyster parks in the site do not cause Economic any known negative impacts. The Ostréa park No. 007 created in 1956 was the first oyster park. 0.75 importance - The mass tourism during the summer helps to promote the economic development of Oualidia. However, it causes significant deterioration of the site. Salt extraction was carried out by the Cherifienne society of salt before its closure. The salt works are currently operated by private societies.

Table 4. Assessment of Oualidia visit conditions.

Subcriteria Indicators Location of the closest public transportation stop: The site is accessible by car, by bus from El Jadida or Safi with several shuttles per day, and by taxis at any time of the day from the coastal road R301 which connects El Jadida and Safi cities.

Accessibility Walking time: After having taken public transport, bus or taxi and 3 min walking arriving at the numerous car parks around the lagoon, just 10 min walking is enough to reach the Oualidia lagoon.

Difficulty: There are no difficulties.

The presence of muddy sediments upstream of the lagoon constitutes a danger for people, breeders, Security farmers, researchers...) at low tide and represents a risk of landfill.

Site context Optimal environment with a beautiful panoramic view of the lagoon and great quiet to its interior.

Several tourist infrastructures are present in the Oualidia municipality: 8 tourist accommodation establishments of different classifications, 4 unclassified tourist accommodation establishments, 3 Tourism restaurants of a classification (2 Forks), and 2 of a classification 1 Fork, a camping and a hotel are being infrastructures built in the Oualidia municipality (according to Provincial Delegation of Ministry of Tourism - El Jadida), and several small unclassified restaurants.

Table 5. Assessment of Oualidia Educational interest.

Subcriteria Indicators The site is not equipped by an interpretative support such us educational panels, and brochures allowing Interpretive a good presentation. The only sign is located at the entrance of Oualidia city announcing the facilities classification of Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex as a Ramsar site.

The lagoon has a significant educational value. The morphological units that can be found on this site are very readable and allow us to understand the different factors involved in their formation, but the Education interest mechanisms explaining the lagoon formation process, geological structure, and channel formation are slightly more complicated and require information adapted to the target audience.

opposite, scarcity and paleogeographic interest are the lightly. The bringing together is explained, in particular, by least influential criteria of the four. Also, let us note that the similarity into scarcity and paleogeographic interest. the representativeness obtained very high values. The low integrity shows that the local geomorphological heritage is not preserved well. As for the raised score for Additional values representativeness of Oualidia, it results partly from the selection process of the site, which represents the Results of assessment of additional values of Oualidia geomorphology of the area. The morphogenetic process and Sidi Moussa geomorphosites are summarized in of the two lagoons is similar. Of fluvial form, both Tables 3 and 7. The two geomorphosites are geomorphosites present a scientific value that differs very characterized by an ecological value rather high. The link 82 J. Sci. Res. Stud.

Board 1. Oualidia lagoon. Aesthetic interest (A1 and A2: Panoramic view of Oualidia lagoon); Geohistorical interest (B1 and B2: Oualidia Caves); Ecological Interest (C1: Common sandpiper, C2: Black-winged stilt, C3: Salicornia); Cultural interest (D: Oualidia Kasbah); Religious interest (E: Sidi Daoud Hrir Marabout).

between geomorphology and biodiversity can be that it is limited to the biotopes and does not include the explained by the granulometry and the presence of water geomorphology. It should be specified also that although due to the existence of the interdunary depression. These the two sites profit from a very good protection parameters affect the development of soil and vegetation, designation, they are degraded and threatened. and create an important diversity of different habitats, thus supporting the biodiversity. The two sites have a raised aesthetic value. The altitude and the very marked Visit conditions and educational interest topography of the lagoon complex Oualidia-Sidi Moussa and the low height of the vegetation of the two lagoons, Visit conditions for the two sites (Tables 4 and 8) are very favor a lot the visibility of the geomorphosites. The big good, especially because they have good accessibility; size of the sites gives them also a high aesthetic value. however, the lack of existing valorization justifies the The cultural value of the two sites is high; the principal ignorance of the general public of the need for the elements which held our attention are the existence of geomorphological heritage protection of both specific elements to the sites, like a religious, historical or geomorphosites. In this case, the low integrity of the sites economic importance. For example, the historical Kasbah can be explained by their good accessibility. of Oualidia or Sidi Moussa marabout is where the lagoon The sites are readable because the processes takes its name. responsible for their formation are easy to apprehend; The study area benefits from several protection this confers to them a good educational value (Tables 5 designations, however this protection is indirect because and 9). Khoukhouchi et al. 83

Table 6. Assessment of The scientific value of Sidi Moussa geomorphosite.

Subcriteria Evaluation Score Integrity - The lagoon are contaminated by inputs such us fertilizers and manure from agricultural and pasture activities on the edge of lagoon (zone C classification) (Maanan, 2003). 0.25 - The groundwater can be polluted by increased salinity (Oulaaross et al., 2005). - The rocks are eroded by the action of the waves. - Representativeness The site is representative of the form of the interdunary depression 0.5 that characterizes the morphological unity of the Doukkala Sahel.

Rareness The site has exceptional features (morphological units: passes, channels, spit, salt evaporation ponds), but not unique in the 0.75 reference area (Oualidia lagoon has the same characteristics).

Paleogeographical The fine sediments are an interesting indicator of climate change. The study of old channel position or the deposits nature can provide Value 0.75 precise information about the stages and conditions of the lagoon formation.

Scientific value 0.56

Table 7. Assessment of the additional values of Sidi Moussa geomorphosite.

Criteria Evaluation Score Value Fucus lutarius and Fucus axillaris are two algae found in Morocco only in Ecological impact 0.75 the Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons (El Hamoumi et al., 2003).

Ecological The site has been an integral part of a permanent hunting reserve since value (ECOL) 1984. At a national level, it was classified as a Biological and Ecological = 0.88 Protected site Interest Site (BEIS) in 1996. It has been identified as an Important Bird 1 Area. The site has been of international interest under the Ramsar Convention since 2005.

There are several points of view on the lagoon. Its geomorphological View points 1 units are highly visible at a significant distance. Aesthetic value Contrasts, vertical (ESTH) = The site is geographically structured in space. There are no altitude development and 0.75 0.88 variations, but the color contrasts are strong (sea, sand, vegetation). space structuration

The site is of national religious importance. The marabouts around the Religious lagoon and in the riparian areas visited by many people in summer. The 0.75 importance lagoon takes its name from Sidi Moussa marabout.

Historical The site has no historical significance. 0 importance Cultural value

(CULT) = Artistic or literary The lagoon was photographed by passionate people. Several photos are 0.5 0.75 importance available on the internet.

- Demonstration of the geomorphological evolution process of coastal Geohistorical lagoons. 0.5 importance - There is no known theory.

84 J. Sci. Res. Stud.

Table 7. Contd..

- The site is still a source of income for the local population, although it is exhausted by anthropogenic activity (fishing and agriculture). Economic 0.5 importance - The tourism is lower during the summer. Salt extraction was carried out by the Cherifienne society of salt before its closure. The salt works are currently operated by private societies.

Board 2. Sidi Moussa lagoon. Aesthetic interest (A1 and A2: Panoramic view of Sidi Moussa lagoon); Ecological Interest (B1: migratory stopover, B2: Kentish plover, B3: Juncus acutus, B4: Salicornia); Religious interest (C: Sidi Moussa Marabout).

The picture of Oualidia Geomorphosite is shown in complex, which constitutes a key socio-economic support Board 1 while that of Sidi Moussa Geomorphosite is for the local population, is an essential activity to ensure shown in Board 2. the sustainable development of the Doukkala region and mainly the "Sahel" coastal zone. For this purpose, concrete actions within the framework of local policy must DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION be carried out to conserve, restore and promote the wise use of these wetlands. The knowledge of all wetland The quality control of the Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon values is a crucial step in decision-making. Khoukhouchi et al. 85

Table 8. Assessment of Sidi Moussa visit conditions.

Subcriteria Indicators Location of the closest public transportation stop: The site is accessible by car, by bus from El Jadida or Safi with several shuttles per day, and by taxis at any time of the day from the coastal road R301 which connects El Jadida and Safi cities. Accessibility Walking time: The public transport is available in a few minutes from the lagoon. Difficulty: There are no difficulties.

The presence of muddy sediments upstream of the lagoon constitutes a danger for people, breeders, Security farmers, researchers... at low tide and represents a risk of landfill.

Site context Optimal environment with a beautiful panoramic view of the lagoon and great quiet to its interior.

Tourism The site is equipped by two hotels classified 1st star, one in the Sidi Abed rural commune, and the other in infrastructures the Ouled Issa rural commune (Provincial Delegation of Ministry of Tourism - El Jadida).

Table 9. Assessment of Sidi Moussa Educational interest.

Subcriteria Indicators The site has no an interpretative material (educational panels, brochures, etc.). There is only one Interpretive facilities educational panel at the entrance to El Jadida city on the motorway announcing the lagoon of Sidi Moussa as a natural site.

The shape of the lagoon is detectably easy for a little discerning eye. Understanding the Education interest conditions of his training requires interpretation adapted to the target audience.

Table 10. Assessment of the scientific value of alluvial terraces of Ait Mallal (Bouzekraoui et al., 2017).

Criteria Integrity Representativeness Rareness Palaeogeographical value Score 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.5 Scientific value = 0.68

The Oualidia-Sidi Moussa lagoon complex was accessibility, numerous tourist infrastructures and an assessed using the method of Reynard et al. (2016). The optimal environment. scientific value of Oualidia geomorphosite is moderately The Sidi Moussa site is characterized by similar visit high, particularly in terms of representativeness, scarcity conditions to Oualidia, with the exception of limited tourist and paleogeographical interest. The integrity is fairly low, infrastructure. The didactic values of both sites are good. which diminished the scientific value of the site. This site Both sites are well protected by regulation since they are has a high overall geomorphological value of about 0.74 located in a nature reserve and they have been classified with a very high ecological and cultural value and good as Ramsar and BEIS sites. Also, these sites are included aesthetic value. in several landscape protection inventories. However, this The scientific value of Sidi Moussa geomorphosite is protection remains insufficient due to the pollution of also moderately high, especially in terms of lagoon water by anthropogenic activities. Both the representativeness, scarcity and paleogeographic Oualidia and Sidi Moussa sites are favorable to didactic interest. The integrity of the site is rather low, which enhancement due to their good educational value and reduces its scientific value of the site. Its ecological, accessibility. cultural and aesthetic values are important, which reflects In its article, Bouzekraoui et al. (2017) evaluated 24 on the geomorphological value that was high with 0.70. sites favorable to the geotourism located in the perimeter Except for the landfill risk in the lagoon upstream part at of Bou Oulli valley situated in the middle of the central a low tide, the visiting conditions of the Oualidia site are High-Atlas of Morocco. The evaluation of these sites was generally very favorable in the presence of suitable based on the assessment methodology adopted in our 86 J. Sci. Res. Stud.

work. Among the sites evaluated by Bouzekraoui et al. beaches, the other salt swamps and wetlands between (2017), nine are related to the fluviatil morphogenetic the two lagoons and to test at the same time the local process, in which the alluvial terraces of Ait Mallal products of the region, in particular fresh vegetables, (ATBflu002) presents a scientific value identical to that of local dishes, traditional bread and honey. The tourist the Oualidia lagoon and are close to that of Sidi Moussa. circuit and georoute must be accompanied by indicative So we proceed in this direction to the and interpretive signs that describe the rich history of the comparison of the results of Bouzekraoui's work for his region. Currently, we are working on the development of site with the work we did for the sites of Oualidia and Sidi documented circuits. Moussa, in order to draw the conclusions concerning the (c) The protection status of the two geomorphosites is contribution of the assessment process in the generally very good, but it is necessary to ensure that all priorisation of protection of the sites. Table 10 measures are properly applied, including limiting the use summarizes the scores of the scientific value of the of fertilizers and pesticides, which have an impact on the alluvial terraces of Ait Mallal. lagoon water quality. A comparison of the results obtained for the scientific (d) The geopark integration into the protection plan of the value and its four criteria shows that the differences are study area is a significant contribution to achieve the very marked with regard to the criterion of integrity. objectives of the region's sustainable development policy. Indeed, although alluvial terraces of Ait Mallal presents (e) The protection and improvement of the Oualidia and the same scientific value as Oualidia and Sidi Moussa, Sidi Moussa geomorphosite heritage can only be the integrity of this site is very good compared to our two achieved with the full involvement of local communities lagoons; of this fact, these two sites should have priority and the commitment of local authorities. For this reason, in decision makings of protection to the national scale. we propose to start with an awareness campaign Although they profit from protection designation, this last accompanied by appropriate training. The schools and rest is suitable for the biodiversity and does not engage places of worship are the appropriate places for this type the protection of the geodiversity. The alluvial terraces of of work. Ait Mallal benefited from no protection designation, which is very integrate, because of its modest Our work of assessment of Oualidia and Sidi Moussa accessibility due to the fact that there are only no paved geomorphosites will be compared with the results of the roads and pedestrian paths. Its site is also far from the assessment of other geosites of the same region, which stops of public transport, and the up time to visit this will be the subject of another study. geomorphosite requires generally a two-day trip tour. The site of this fact is not threatened, and does not require an REFERENCES urgent protection. In general, it can be concluded that the assessment of Ballouche A, Carruesco C (1986). Holocene evolution of a lagoon the scientific value of the sites does not alone justify the ecosystem: the Oualidia lagoon (Atlantic Morocco). J. Dyn. Geol. urgency of their protection. We think that it is necessary Phys. Geogr. 27:113-118. 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