LAND USE DYNAMICS AND SOIL CONSERVATION STRATEGIES IN THE EL KSSIBA REGION, ATLAS MOUNTAINS OF MOROCCO.

This study investigates the dynamics of land use and land cover (LULC) changes in the El Kssiba region of the Middle Atlas Mountains, Morocco, with a focus on soil conservation and environmental sustainability. Through a comprehensive examination of historical archives, climatic data, geological characteristics, and land use patterns, this research assesses the impacts of environmental factors and socio-economic changes on land utilization over time. The study area, covering 576.57 km², has experienced significant transformations in land use driven by government policies, population growth, land tenure, and climatic conditions. Findings reveal a notable decline in agricultural and olive cultivation, alongside a substantial increase in bare land and forest cover, suggesting both degradation and potential recovery of land. These changes highlight the urgent need for sustainable land management and soil conservation strategies to mitigate degradation and enhance land productivity. The conducted SWOT analysis highlights the intricate relationship between the traditional strengths of pastoral systems and the pronounced contemporary challenges, especially regarding environmental degradation, climate change, and socioeconomic pressures. This study offers key insights for policy development to promote balanced conservation and sustainable resource management, highlighting the need for long-term strategies to ensure sustainable land use in fragile ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]