The reality of human influences, natural phenomena, and legal protection for the Lake of Sidi Boughaba Reserve- Western Coastal Region, Morocco

Prepared by the researcher  : Nail Abdulrahman Moqbel Saif ^{1,2 –} Ghazi Abdelkhalik¹

• ¹ Ibn Tofail University -Faculty of Humanities And Social Sciences-kenitra-Morocco
• ² Marine Sciences and Aquatic Biology Research Authority-Aden-Yemen

Democratic Arabic Center

Journal of Strategic and Military Studies : Twenty-First – December 2023

A Periodical International Journal published by the “Democratic Arab Center” Germany – Berlin

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Abstract

The objective of this research is to evaluate the present condition of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve by investigating the influence of human and natural factors on the environment and biodiversity. The study took place in the city of Mahdia and its nearby areas, specifically focusing on the Kenitra and Sidi Tibi communities. The data collection process involved conducting direct interviews and administering questionnaires to participants. Subsequently, a descriptive-analytical approach was employed to analyze the collected data. The results demonstrated a significant and robust correlation between human activities, observed changes in the natural environment, and biodiversity within the Sidi Boughaba Reserve. Furthermore, it was noted that the decline in the reserve’s natural environment and biodiversity exhibited a moderate to substantial level of impact. This deterioration can be attributed to both natural causes and specific human activities.

Introduction

The significance of environmental and climatic indicators in present-day natural environments has risen to a paramount position, shaping the economic, social, cultural, environmental, and technological landscape at both local and global scales. These indicators hold crucial importance in enhancing human well-being.

Given the current human challenge of achieving sustainability for natural resources while protecting the environment and preserving biodiversity, experts, scientists, researchers, and environmental enthusiasts have observed a contrasting trend. There is an alarming and excessive exploitation of various natural resources due to rapid population growth in urban and rural areas, coupled with mankind’s relentless pursuit of comfort and luxury, disregarding the origin, characteristics, and limitations of these resources. Consequently, this has resulted in the degradation and depletion of vital resources like soil, water, and biodiversity, as well as the emergence of peculiar environmental phenomena such as drought, pest infestations, and global pandemics.

These concerns arise from the vulnerability of the legal framework at the national level and the inability to establish enforceable international agreements, exemplified by the Paris Climate Agreement, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Ramsar Convention, and the Convention to Combat Desertification. Despite the growing focus on environmental matters in recent decades and the acknowledgment of future generations’ entitlement to benefit from the country’s resources and energies, known as sustainable development, substantial progress remains elusive.

Similar to other countries worldwide, Morocco faces numerous environmental challenges. A striking illustration is the current state of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve, once hailed as a paradise by the French and earlier by the Arab tribes that inhabited Mahdia. This distressing state of affairs has prompted our present-day concern, leading us to conduct field research. Our objective is to comprehend the impact of both natural and human factors on the natural environments and biological diversity within the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.

Statement of the Problem:

The Kenitra region boasts several wetlands, three of which hold international recognition on the Ramsar list. These wetlands encompass diverse natural environments, each with unique characteristics and serving multiple functions and services. However, they are currently grappling with various environmental challenges stemming from both unsustainable resource exploitation and the impact of human activities. These circumstances prompt us to delve into profound inquiries, seeking to understand the consequences of these natural and human influences on the dynamics of the natural environment and its biological diversity. What forms of impacts underlie the degradation of the natural environment and its biodiversity? How has the Sidi Boughaba Reserve undergone environmental changes? In what ways has the natural environment suffered deterioration? What measures have been implemented by authorities, civil society, and the local population to mitigate these transformations? Furthermore, how can the enforcement of environmental laws contribute to attaining environmental equilibrium, curtailing human activities that affect the reserve, and safeguarding its natural systems?

Research Aims:

The research aims to uncover the dynamics of natural and human influences on the environmental system and biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve. This objective is regarded as a crucial initial step in contemporary research methodologies, as it enables the research to be guided by scientific principles and facilitates the implementation of effective measures to protect and preserve the reserve’s environmental system. In this context, the following research objectives have been established:

1. Assessing the current state of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve as a nature reserve, including its specific features and characteristics.
2. Raising awareness among local stakeholders and decision-makers about the environmental, social, and economic significance of wetlands as delicate ecosystems susceptible to human activities, natural phenomena, and climate changes.
3. Strengthening the capacities of various stakeholders to actively engage in the protection and sustainable management of these areas. This aligns with the national strategy for wetlands and involves the development of participatory management plans that incorporate all relevant local actors, particularly the local population and environmental and development-focused civil society organizations.
4. Advancing our understanding of nature reserves, with a particular emphasis on wetland ecosystems.

By accomplishing these objectives, the research aims to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve’s environmental system and its sustainable conservation.

Research Hypotheses:

Hypotheses play a fundamental role in constructing scientific research projects as they guide the investigation into the specific subject of study. These hypotheses serve as initial assumptions about a particular reality that researchers aim to either prove or disprove through a thorough examination of the subject. In this study, three hypotheses have been formulated to provide a framework for the research, which can be summarized as follows:

1. Differences in respondents’ perceptions of the current situation of the Sidi Boughaba Lake Reserve, including natural and human activities, observed changes in the natural environment, and measures implemented by the responsible sectors, will be significantly influenced by personal variables such as gender, age, and educational level.
2. There exists a significant relationship between natural and human activities, observed changes in the natural environment, and the current situation of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.
3. The observed shifts in the natural environment and biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Lake Reserve are significantly associated with the interventions undertaken by the responsible sectors to mitigate the deterioration of the reserve’s natural environment and biodiversity.

Limitations of the Field Study

1. Objective Limitation: The primary focus of this study is to investigate the current state of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve and the various threats it encounters in the coastal region of Western Morocco.
2. Human Participants: The study includes individuals who reside and work in the guardianship sectors of natural reserves in Kenitra, as well as students and researchers.
3. Time Frame: The field study was conducted specifically in the year 2022.
4. Spatial Scope: The study was carried out in the city of Mahdia, Morocco, which is protected by the Sidi Boughaba Reserve. The reserve is located between latitudes 34° 15′ 55″ and 34° 12′ 27″ north of the equator and between longitudes 6° 45′ 27″ and 6° 42′ 32″ west of the Greenwich meridian (Fig. 1).

Figure (1) Localization of the field study within the local, regional, and regional borders

Source: personal work.

Research Methodology

This study employed an analytical, descriptive, and interpretive approach to analyze the data gathered through direct interviews using a structured questionnaire. This approach is well suited to the research objectives and is widely utilized in the examination of environmental phenomena, making it a preferred choice.

Data Collection Sources

The data for this study was gathered using a questionnaire derived from the research titled “The Reality of Natural Reserves.” The questionnaire was then modified and reviewed to align with the research objectives, incorporating feedback from experts.

The questionnaire comprised a series of statements that reflected the study’s objectives, along with corresponding questions for the respondents to answer.

It was organized into five categories, each representing an axis, and each item within these categories was rated on a five-point scale to assess its relative importance. It included two parts:

• Part one: General information about the study sample.
• The second part includes paragraphs of the questionnaire questions, which are divided into six axes, namely:

1. The first axis includes a general assessment of the current situation of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.
2. The second axis tackles the human causes for the deterioration of the natural environment and the biodiversity of the reserve.
3. The third axis represents the natural causes of the deterioration of the natural environment and the biodiversity of the reserve.
4. The fourth axis is devoted to the observed changes in the natural environment and the biodiversity of the reserve.
5. The fifth axis is about the interventions and actions taken by the guardian sectors to reduce the deterioration of the natural environment and the biological diversity of the reserve.
6. The Sixth Axis introduces suggestions and opinions for the development of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.

The natural and human framework of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

Natural characteristics

The Sidi Boughaba Reserve possesses highly significant natural attributes, showcasing a distinctive vegetation cover consisting of a red juniper forest. Nestled within this forest is a freshwater lake that creates a boundary of sand dunes. This ecological region holds immense importance on both national and international scales, serving as a crucial stopover for migratory birds. These remarkable characteristics have earned the reserve its prestigious status as one of the earliest wetlands to be listed under the Ramsar Convention in 1980. The designation acknowledges its critical role in preserving and sustaining the delicate ecosystems within its boundaries. What distinguishes this field study is the presence of two terrain units, the first belonging to the coastal region, and the second to the Mamoura plateau, which can be presented as the following:

Coastal Region: The topography of the area displays a generally flat terrain, with occasional depressions known as Picthipe scattered across it. Additionally, a series of longitudinal hills run parallel to the coastline, gradually increasing in elevation towards the north. These hills are separated by long and narrow depressions, as described by Watfa Abdel-Rahim (1993).

Mamoura Plateau: The study area exhibits a decrease in elevation when moving from the southeast to the northwest. The eastern portion of the research site is characterized by a plateau, consisting of longitudinal hills that extend in a northeastern to southwestern direction, as documented by Watfa Abdel Rahim in (1993). The highest recorded elevation is found in the southeast, reaching 77 meters, while the lowest elevation point is located in the far north, measuring 4 meters above sea level. These topographical details are based on two topographic maps in 1996, specifically the Kenitra map at a 1:50,000 scale and the Sidi Bouknadel map at a 1:50,000 scale.

The Soil:  There are three basic types of soil in Sidi Boughaba Reserve which can be displayed as the following:

1. Hydrated Soil: The soil found along the edges of the lawn covers approximately 14% of the reserve’s total area. This soil supports the growth of various aquatic plants, including rushes, water reeds, and others, particularly during the rainy seasons. However, during dry periods, this soil type is prone to cracking and becoming rigid, resulting in the demise of numerous plants that depend on it for sustenance. These plants serve as a primary food source for a wide range of insects, both aquatic and terrestrial.
2. Calcium-Magnesian Soil: The soil in question is primarily concentrated in the coastal area and the southwestern part of the plain, encompassing approximately 43% of the protected area. It is particularly prevalent in the western vicinity of the lake.
3. Siskioxide Soil: The soil in question is primarily concentrated in the coastal region and extends east of Marja Sidi Boughaba. It spans an approximate area of 30,000 hectares towards the western side, accounting for approximately 43% of the protected area. The predominant soil type is sandy, predominantly found along the western part of Lake Sidi Boughaba, and there is also a presence of beach sand along the coast.

Bioclimatic Characteristics

Rainfall plays a vital role in understanding climate patterns as it directly influences the water system, vegetation cover, and biodiversity. However, the distribution of precipitation within a given area can be irregular, with rates varying from season to season and year to year. The Sidi Boughaba Reserve experiences a semi-humid oceanic Mediterranean climate, characterized by two distinct seasons: hot and dry in summer, and warm and rainy in winter. On average, the annual precipitation is estimated at around 568.68 mm, but it is subject to fluctuations based on climatic conditions, sometimes reaching 600 mm or even less. The average annual temperature remains relatively moderate at 6.17°. The region experiences an average minimum temperature of 11.6 degrees and an average maximum temperature of 23.1 degrees. These climatic conditions are typical for the humid regions of Morocco, particularly along the coastal areas.

The region experiences irregular annual precipitation, characterized by poor distribution and fluctuating rates. The presence of oceanic influences on the climate leads to a significant increase in relative humidity in the air. Monthly rainfall rates display considerable variations and wide fluctuations, with the lowest rainfall occurring during the summer months. Conversely, the remaining months of the year witness precipitation ranging from weak to moderate and occasionally concentrated levels, Issa Al-Bouzidi (2008).

In Fig. 2, the abundance of precipitation from October to April is depicted, showcasing varying proportions of rainfall exceeding the monthly average by approximately 46.75 mm. During this period, these months contribute to 91.8% of the total monthly precipitation, with December marking the highest recorded amount. Conversely, August records the lowest amount of precipitation.

Fig 2: Average monthly precipitation between (1990-2020) – Kenitra Station (including Sidi Boughaba Reserve)

Source: Regional Office for Agricultural Investment

Human Characteristics

The population residing in close proximity to the reserve is primarily concentrated in clusters and roundabouts near the urban community of Mahdia and the rural community of Sidi Tibi within the Kenitra region. These areas, in close vicinity to the reserve, are considered vital. As per the general population and housing census conducted in 2014, the population of the kenitra region was estimated to be around 1,061,435 individuals, where Sidi Tibi and Mahdia groups experienced rapid demographic development between 2004- 2014.

Table (1): Evolution of the population of the two communities of Sidi Tibi and Mahdia

Source: General Population and Housing Statistics (1994, 2004, 2014)

Mahdia, situated in the Kenitra region, is renowned as a historical and tourist city with roots tracing back to the Roman era, Mohamed Said Soussan (1996). Located in the Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region in northern Morocco, Mahdia is nestled at the mouth of Wadi Sbou, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. According to the 2004 census, the population of Mahdia was recorded as 16,262. However, by 2014, the population had increased to approximately 19,979.

Mahdia thrives on its tourism resources, attracting an average of 120,000 visitors daily during the summer season, as reported by the 2022 Committee for Tracking Clean Beaches in the Kenitra prefecture. The city’s appeal lies in its ancient cultural heritage, particularly the Kasbah of Mahdia, which houses historical monuments such as cannons, a palace, and a castle. Additionally, Mahdia is characterized by a naturally fertile agricultural area and serves as an industrial center, centered around its port overlooking the Sbou River.

The fishing port stands as an economic symbol for Mahdia, boasting diverse marine species such as fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. It attracts visitors from various regions of Morocco and abroad. Unfortunately, these factors exert pressure on the Sidi Boughaba Reserve and have a detrimental impact on its natural environment and biodiversity.

On the other hand, the community of Sidi Tibi serves as a focal point for unregulated housing, with approximately 15,000 homes covering an estimated area of 750 hectares. The lack of proper liquid purification networks and rainwater drainage systems poses challenges. Many of these buildings have insufficient wastewater management, resulting in seepage through the underground bed of the Mamoura Basin. This situation not only affects the quality of groundwater but also exposes it to the risk of pollution. The Mamoura Basin serves as a primary water source, supplying several cities with drinking water and acting as the main source for Lake Sidi Boughaba.

First part: General Information about the Study Sample

1. The variable of the surveyed categories according to gender

In terms of the research categories, the direct interviews encompassed individuals from both genders, including females and males. The male participants constituted approximately 63% of the sample, while the female participants accounted for 37%. This approach aimed to gain insights from both males and females regarding their perspectives on the known issues related to the natural environment and its impact on its equilibrium. Additionally, the interviews aimed to elicit suggestions from participants on how to restore the balance of the ecosystem.

Figure 3: The variable of the surveyed groups according to gender

2. The average age variable in the target sample

In Fig. (4) Depicted below, the average age variable of the surveyed groups is  presented. The age group of 20 – 30 years constitutes 45% of the participants, followed by the category of 31- 45 years with 34%. The age group of over 45 years accounts for 17% of the participants, while the age group under 20 years represents only 4%.

Figure (4): The average age of the studied sample

These data indicate that the research encompassed individuals from a wide range of age groups. This diversity and comprehensiveness of age groups contribute to the significance of the results and recommendations. They provide valuable insights into the underlying causes of the challenges faced by the Sidi Boughaba Reserve, such as the observed deterioration of the natural environment and its biodiversity. Additionally, these findings aid in the formulation of recommendations to restore the balance of the reserve in a participatory manner. This inclusive approach involves various stakeholders within and surrounding the reserve, including the kenitra community and other neighboring territories.

3. The variable of the average educational level of the target sample

Figure (5): The average educational level

Based on the data presented in Figure 5 above, the percentages of the researched groups in this study can be observed. Participants with a higher educational level, including university graduates or those with education from higher schools, account for 52% of the sample. The secondary level, comprising both preparatory and qualifying education, represents 36% of the participants. The primary level constitutes 8% of the studied sample, while respondents without any educational qualification make up only 4%.

These results pertaining to the educational categories of the respondents enable a deeper understanding of the root causes behind the degradation of the natural environment in the Sidi Boughaba Reserve. Furthermore, the recommendations derived from this study hold significant value and importance. They are expected to garner the attention of officials, leading to their inclusion in plans aimed at restoring the natural balance of the reserve and promoting sustainable utilization of its resources. The notable presence of individuals with higher educational qualifications reinforces this viewpoint, given the continuous contributions of universities and higher institutes in conducting qualitative and comprehensive studies in the field of natural areas within the reserve.

4. The average variable of the role played by the respondent in his community

Figure (6): The average role-played by the respondent

Regarding the average variable of the respondents’ role in society, the category of student researchers comprised 35% of the sample, while the general population constituted 33%. Civil society actors accounted for 20%, and representatives from the guardianship departments focused on the environmental field represented 9%. The remaining 3% belonged to another group.

These data, along with the previously mentioned categories, further emphasize the inclusive nature of this research study. It aims to respect and involve all relevant groups associated with environmental affairs and the localization of the study. By considering diverse perspectives, interests, and interventions from different stakeholders, including sector representatives, beneficiaries, visitors, and neighboring residents of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve, the study gains significant importance in terms of generating suggestions and recommendations.

The second part: The field study focuses: the six axes outlined in the questionnaire

The first axis: Involves conducting a general assessment of the current environmental situation of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.

In the first axis of the questionnaire, the respondents were asked four preliminary questions to evaluate their opinion on the current overall environmental situation of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve. The questions included the following:

1. How do you see the status of the natural environment of the reserve (forest …)?
2. How do you see the water quality in the reserve?
3. How do you see the situation of the animals in the reserve (birds, other creatures…)?
4. What do you think of the general status of the reserve?

Figure (7): Assessment of the general situation of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

Based on the results presented in Figure (7), the respondents have expressed their perception that the general environmental status of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve is at a medium level. The percentages indicate that 52% of respondents rated the status of the natural environment as a medium, 42% considered the water quality as a medium, 49% evaluated the status of animals in the reserve as a medium, and 44% rated the overall situation of the reserve as a medium.

These views confirm the notion that the natural environment and biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve, in general, are  affected by various factors. The specific factors influencing the reserve’s environmental condition will be determined later based on the results of the questionnaire and will be compared to the findings of previous studies conducted on the reserve.

Two photos (1-2) highlighting the general situation of the natural environment and the biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

The second axis: the human causes of the deterioration of the natural environment and the biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.

Within this axis, the respondents were asked five questions to assess the influence of population activities on the environmental condition of the reserve. The questions included the following:

1. What is the impact of visitors’ and adjacent residents’ behaviors, such as scavenging, overgrazing, tree cutting, and noise, on the reserve?
2. What is the impact of urban sprawl on the reserve or its surrounding areas?
3. What is the impact of agricultural activities in the vicinity of the reserve?
4. What is the impact of other activities, such as eco-tourism, traditional crafts, or any other relevant activities, on the reserve?
5. What is the impact of industrial activities and the discharge of wastewater on the reserve?

Two photos (3-4) of environmental education and ecotourism activities in Sidi Boughaba Reserve  For the Sidi Boughaba  Youth Cooperative (3) and the Ecological Lighthouses Association for Development and Climate (4)

Based on the results depicted in Figure (8), the impact of population activities on the environmental condition of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve varies from medium to strong. The respondents expressed the following percentages for each question regarding the impact of specific activities:

• 44% of respondents believed that industrial activities and wastewater have a medium impact on the reserve.
• 42% indicated that craft and service activities have a medium impact.
• 40% suggested that agricultural activities surrounding the reserve also have a medium impact.
• Furthermore, the impact of urban sprawl on the reserve was rated at 38%, while the impact of the behavior of the neighboring population was considered strong, with a rating of 34%.

 These findings confirm the hypothesis put forward during the analysis of the first axis, highlighting the human influences on the reserve’s natural system, which range from medium to strong, according to the respondents’ opinions.

Figure (8): Evaluation of the impact of population activities on the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

The third axis: the natural causes of the deterioration of the natural environment and the biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.

It included 4 questions addressed to the respondents to assess the impact of natural causes on the environmental status of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve, which were as follows:

1. What is the impact of floods on the natural environment and the biodiversity of the reserve?
2. What is the impact of drought on the natural environment and the biodiversity of the reserve?
3. What is the impact of fires on the natural environment and the biodiversity of the reserve?
4. What is the impact of climate change on the natural environment and the biodiversity of the reserve?

Upon analysing the results of evaluating the impact of natural phenomena on the natural environment of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve, as shown in Figure (9), the respondents expressed the following assessments:

• The impact of floods was considered weak, representing 44% of the responses.
• Climate changes were deemed to have a moderate impact, as indicated by 37% of the respondents.
• The impact of fires was also rated as moderate, with 35% of the respondents acknowledging its significance.
• Drought, on the other hand, was perceived to have a strong impact, according to 24% of the respondents.

Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the reserve experiences a strong impact from drought, followed by climate changes and fires. However, floods were identified as having a weak impact on the reserve, likely due to the topographical nature of the area and the presence of the lake.

Fig. (9): Assessment of the impact of natural phenomena on the natural environment of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

The fourth axis of the questionnaire focused on examining the observed changes in the natural environment and biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve resulting from human activities and natural phenomena. Within this axis, five questions were presented to the respondents to evaluate the influence of these transformations on the environmental condition of the reserve. The questions included the following:

1. Changes in the vegetation cover in the reserve as a result of human and natural influences.
2. Changes in the reserve’s lake water area as a result of human and natural influences.
3. Changes in the number of migratory birds coming to the reserve.
4. Transformations to the rest of the living organisms in general in the reserve.
5. Changes in the activities practiced in the reserve (environmental education – ecotourism – some traditional professions …) as a result of human and natural influences.

Two photos (5-6) of the state of dryness of Lake Sidi Boughaba in the summer of 2022

Figure (10): Observed changes in the natural environment and biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve as a result of human and natural influences

Based on the results presented in Figure (10), it is evident that transformations are occurring in the natural environment and biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve as a result of both human and natural influences. The respondents’ opinions regarding these transformations are as follows:

• 49% of the respondents confirmed a medium impact of transformations on activities practiced in the reserve, such as environmental awareness and ecotourism. These activities continue to take place, albeit at a reduced pace.
• The impact of transformations on the vegetation cover was also perceived as medium, with 39% of respondents acknowledging this effect. Ongoing activities within the reserve contribute to this transformation.
• Furthermore, respondents classified the impact of transformations as strong in the following areas:
• 42% noted a strong impact on the number of migratory birds that visit the reserve.
• 40% observed a strong impact on the biodiversity within the reserve.
• 36% reported a strong impact on the decline in the area of the protected lake water.

These results highlight the clear transformations occurring in the natural environment and biodiversity of the reserve, ranging from medium to strong effects. Notably, the reserve has experienced significant water drought in the lake during the summers of 2021 and 2022, as depicted in the provided images (5-6) and (7-8).

Two photos (7-8) Biodiversity of Sidi Boughaba Reserve (7) Varieties of ducks (8) the black coot

The fifth axis of the questionnaire focused on evaluating the interventions and measures implemented by the guardianship sectors to mitigate the deterioration of the natural environment and biodiversity in the Sidi Boughaba Reserve. Within this axis, five questions were posed to the respondents to assess the effectiveness of these interventions. The questions included the following:

1. How do you assess the role and intervention of the Territorial Community of Mahdia and the Territorial Community of Sidi Tibi to limit the deterioration and development of the reserve?
2. How do you assess the role and intervention of the water and forest sector to limit the deterioration and development of the reserve?
3. How do you evaluate the role and intervention of the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development (environmental sector) to limit the deterioration and development of the reserve?
4. How do you assess the role and intervention of the local authorities to limit the deterioration and development of the reserve?
5. How do you assess the role of environmental protection laws in particular, wet, and protected areas in general to limit the deterioration and development of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve?

Based on the results displayed in Figure (11) below, the role of the guardianship sectors in mitigating the deterioration of the natural environment and biodiversity in the Sidi Boughaba Reserve was perceived as average in various sectors. The respondents expressed the following proportions:

• 41% believed the role of the environment sector was average.
• 38% considered the role of the water sector to be average.
• 36% perceived the role of the forest sector to be average.

On the other hand, the role of the local authority in the reserve intervention was regarded as important by 23% of the respondents. However, the role of protective laws specific to the reserve and wetland areas, in general, was perceived as very weak, with only 27% of respondents feeling that these laws effectively protected the natural environment of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve and its biodiversity. This perception stemmed from observations made during the field study, as well as statements from both reserve visitors and neighboring residents. These findings suggest that there may be shortcomings, challenges in implementation, or a need for amendments or stricter enforcement of existing legislation.

Fig. (11): The role of the guardianship sectors and laws in the protection and development of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

The results indicate that the guardianship sectors play a significant role in addressing the challenges faced by the Sidi Boughaba Reserve, ranging from medium to important. However, there is a need for stricter implementation of protective laws or the development of new legislation that can effectively safeguard natural environments and their biological diversity. It is crucial to ensure that these laws are enforced uniformly and universally to ensure the protection of the reserve’s ecological integrity.

Sixth Axis: Suggestions and opinions for the development of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve by the respondents

Suggestions and opinions of the respondents in order to develop the natural environment and preserve the biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve:

Regarding the vegetation cover of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve (forest and plants in general)

• Reforestation of areas with deteriorated vegetation within the reserve, while preventing tree cutting, overgrazing, and preventing fires.
• Work to develop a guide for endangered species and work to implement initiatives aimed at protecting the vegetation cover in accordance with Morocco’s National Strategy 2030.
• Establishing a green belt to reduce urban sprawl or to move closer to the reserve’s perimeter.
• Preparing an elaborate program by the competent authorities to identify plant species and their compatibility with the natural environment, and to punish all violators as a result of violent interventions toward the vegetation cover.

For water in the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

• Preserving water from pollution and not throwing rubbish into the lake.
• The water is good and clean, and a natural wooden fence should be placed around the perimeter of the lake water.
• Call to rationalize the use of groundwater in the agricultural areas around the reserve.

For migratory birds and birds in general, the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

• Preventing all causes of noise or disturbing birds, especially migratory birds, and monitoring indiscriminate hunting in the vicinity of the reserve.
• Take care to limit the breeding of stray dogs inside the reserve.
• Do not approach birds or give them food.
• Caring for and preserving migratory birds by preserving their nesting and breeding habitats.
• Sensitize visitors to avoid some disturbing behaviors such as noise and loud music in the reserve that cause the expulsion of birds, in addition to avoiding approaching nesting places, and food waste should not be left randomly that would attract stray dogs and wild boar.

For visitors and residents surrounding the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

• Educating visitors and the surrounding population on the importance of preserving wet areas through digital platforms and social networks.
• Educating and sensitizing visitors and residents to the importance of preserving the protected natural environments from deterioration.

• Preserving this ecological milieu by the neighboring population, especially those close to it, in order to make this space a splendor and a special space for biological and ecological organisms.
• Creating a private space for visitors that is relatively far from the habitats of animals and birds.

For the general hygiene of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

• Preventing rubbish throwing and sensitizing visitors and the surrounding population to the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of the reserve.
• Contribute to cleaning campaigns for the reserve by the community and the territorial commune of Kenitra on a regular basis.
• Sensitize visitors to throw rubbish in designated places in the reserve and not to leave waste in it.
• Every person is responsible for himself cleaning his place when he finishes eating and hiking, and it is better to carry his waste with him away from the reserve.
• Assigning daily cleaners to clean the reserve.

For the equipment located in the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

• Work to provide natural chairs and tables inside the reserve for the benefit of visitors.
• Establishing spaces for recreation outside fragile areas or in which birds are heavily present.
• Establishing pedestrian lanes to limit the entry of cars.
• Carry out awareness campaigns to preserve the existing equipment, which is intended for the convenience of visitors, and work to add other equipment and establish health facilities in the reserve.
• Work on the establishment of warning, awareness and identification boards about the components of the reserve.

For the general security and protection of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve

• Work to provide security men for the reserve with visits by some police patrols at least every three times a day.
• Work to provide men to guide people on the importance of the reserve and prevent vandalism therein.

For the laws that protect Sidi Boughaba reserve

• Call for the issuance of applied laws for protected areas and the provision of environmental policemen within the reserve.
• Work on finding a legal formula to impose punitive fines on anyone who causes damage, pollutes or affects the living organisms of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.
• Work to implement environmental laws and make them more stringent.
• Visitors must follow the laws to preserve the reserve.
• Attention to the legal aspect, especially those related to preserving the environment, promoting environmental awareness, looking at old laws, and grafting them with new laws that take into account the future requirements of the reserve.

Research recommendations

By analyzing the data of the study and testing the hypotheses, we reached a set of results, namely:

• There is a strong impact on the deterioration of the natural environment and biodiversity of Lake Sidi Boughaba Reserve due to natural causes, while human activities have a moderate impact.
• There is a medium impact regarding the measures taken by the guardianship sectors to reduce the deterioration of the natural environment and the biodiversity of the Sidi Boughaba Lake Reserve at a medium rate, and this is not sufficient to preserve the natural reserve.
• There is a correlation where there is a statistically significant relationship between the changes observed in the natural environment, biodiversity, and human activities in the Sidi Boughaba Lake Reserve.
• There is a statistically significant relationship between human activities and the current situation of the Sidi Boughaba Reserve.
• There is a correlation where there is a statistically significant relationship between the changes observed in the natural environment, biodiversity, and human activities in the Sidi Boughaba Lake Reserve, and this threatens the biodiversity of the reserve and must be preserved by the competent authorities.

Based on the above, we recommend the following:

• Reducing human activities such as dumping waste, sewage waste, urban expansion, hunting, and so on.
• Provide a suitable environment for birds to live and protect them from hunting.
• Preserving the natural resources in the reserve to avoid the migration of birds.
• Applying laws to protect the reserve’s water resources and treat wastewater before it is thrown into the reserve’s waters.
• Periodic waste collection from the reserve.
• Providing the necessary equipment and allocating special sums of money from the Municipal Council.
• Invite the Water and Forests Authority to intensify monitoring in the reserve by allocating or appointing permanent guards for the reserve.
• Educate visitors and residents to preserve the reserve by making banners and conducting awareness seminars.
• Punish all those accused of tampering with the reserve.

References                                                                                              

1- Abdel-Khaleq Ghazi, data about the natural center of the West region. The West Region: The Sphere and the Human, Publications of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities in kenitra, Series of Seminars and Debates No., Ibn Tofail University. Pg.: 19. 1991.

2- Issa Al Bouzidi.. Climatic heterogeneity and its consequences through some statistical indicators on the coast of Mahdia, Moulay Bousselham. Journal of African Studies and the Nile Basin p. 23-38. (2008).

3- Muhammad Saeed Soussan, Kasbah of Mahdia, Protectorate of Sidi Boughaba Historical Guide, first edition, pp. 47-48. (1996).

4- Wafa Abdul Rahim, Mamoura plateau and Salé coast, surface formations and geomorphological development. Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Rabat, New Knowledge Press, Rabat. . (1993).

Administrative and cartographic references:

1- Map of the regional division of Morocco 2015.

2- Monograph of the kenitra region 2016.

3- Reports of the General Population and Housing Census (1994, 2004, 2014).

4- The two topographical maps of Kenitra, at a scale of 1/50,000 in 1996, and of Sidi Bouknadel, at a scale of 1/50,000 in 1996.