Characterization and dynamics of agroforestry landscape using geospatial techniques and field survey: a case study in central High-Atlas (Morocco)

Agroforestry has emerged as a pertinent answer to the challenges of modern agriculture. Agroforestry landscapes characterization allows to conduct a management policy of rural and mountain landscapes and to produce economical, environmental and social benefits. Due to its geographical location and its natural potential, the rural Agoudi N’Lkhir Municipality has very rich and diversified agroforestry assets: arboriculture and considerable forestry resources. However, these agroforestry landscapes are subject to accelerated degradation due to anthropogenic and natural factors are causing the weakening of the natural environment. The purpose of our study is to determine the agroforestry landscapes characteristics of Agoudi N’Lkhir rural municipality, the dynamics of these agroforestry landscapes and responsible partners for the management of these landscapes. The methodology of this study uses the synergy between several techniques: geographical information system (GIS), field survey, processing and analyzing remote sensing images data, and finally the use of landscaped and agroforestry diagnosis. The results showed that the forest of the municipality decreased strongly in the order of 36 % in 35 years (1973–2008). The most of agriculture and livestock are traditional (Bour) and should undergo an appropriate development. The paper highlights policy and efforts to do for developing the rural mountainous agroforestry landscapes of Agoudi N’Lkhir Municipality and identifies entry points for success agroforestry adoption. To improve the current situation of agroforestry system, the different managers of this space must meet, discuss and consult with all stakeholders to launch together, in a perspective of sustainable development and management actions of this territory.