Manuscript Title:

THE TRANSFORMATION OF AGRICULTURAL LANDSCAPES UNDER RAPID URBANIZATION IN THE TADLA PLAIN: CASE STUDY OF BENI AMIR IRRIGATED PERIMETER (MOROCCO)

Author:

AZIZ MAZIANE, JAMILA SAIDI, OUMAIMA BOUMEAZA, TAIEB BOUMEAZA

DOI Number:

DOI:10.5281/zenodo.10017556

Published : 2023-10-10

About the author(s)

1. AZIZ MAZIANE - University of Science of Ben Msik (Cazablanca), Laboratory of LAGAGE. UH2C. (Morocco).
2. JAMILA SAIDI - University of Science of Ben Msik (Cazablanca), Laboratory of LAGAGE. UH2C. (Morocco)
3. OUMAIMA BOUMEAZA - University of Science of Ben Msik (Cazablanca), Laboratory of LAGAGE. UH2C. (Morocco)
4. TAIEB BOUMEAZA - University of Hassan 2(Casablanca), Faculty of Letters and Human Science (Mohamadia), Laboratory of Space and Society.

Full Text : PDF

Abstract

The Mediterranean region has experienced a dynamic shift in its landscape due to rapid urbanization, leading to the conversion of fertile agricultural lands into built-up environments. This transformation carries multifaceted consequences, affecting ecosystem services, regional hydrology, biodiversity, and overall environmental quality. The present paper employs a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates urban planning, land use policies, socioeconomic dynamics, ecological changes, and historical perspectives. Besides, the historical climate data and Google Earth imagery were analyzed and used to investigate the land change. The research aims to elucidate the complex dynamics underlying the transformation of agricultural landscapes in the Beni Amir irrigated areas within Tadla Plain. The findings will contribute to discussions on sustainable urbanization, land use planning, and agricultural resilience in the face of rapid urban development. Results show a transformative trend in the Beni Amir irrigated zone within the Tadla Plain, where both agricultural and urban areas have expanded significantly from 1980 to 2023. This expansion highlights the need for sustainable development strategies that balance agricultural growth, urbanization, and environmental preservation.


Keywords

Agricultural Landscape; Irrigated Area of Beni Amir, Transformation; Urbanization; Tadla Plain (Morocco).