ANEF Turns to Waterbox for a New Way to Reforest

In the Souss-Massa region, the National Agency for Water and Forests presented a reforestation method adapted to arid environments, based on the Waterbox device. This solution was unveiled during a field visit near Agadir.

Deployed as part of the Morocco Forest Strategy 2020‑2030, launched under the impetus of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, this technology aims to address water and climate constraints that hinder forest regeneration. The device relies on a reservoir capable of capturing ambient humidity, releasing it gradually to the roots and limiting evaporation.

Trials carried out in the region achieved survival rates above 95 percent, with a notable improvement in seedling growth and a reduction in irrigation needs. These results concern especially sensitive species such as the argan tree, whose regeneration remains weakened by climate‑change effects.

In total, more than 1,200 hectares have already been reforested using this technology in the Souss-Massa region. ANEF has, building on these experiments, committed to developing a locally produced model to reduce costs and further adapt the tool to national realities.

The introduction of the Waterbox is part of a broader effort to modernize forest practices. It aims to secure planting programmes, improve their efficiency and strengthen ecosystem resilience to climatic changes.

Through this initiative, the agency seeks to accelerate the deployment of innovative solutions for sustainable natural‑resource management, with the objective of consolidating forest ecosystems that are more resilient and better suited to the country’s environmental conditions.

Source : biladi