SUSTAINING MOROCCAN OASIS AGRICULTURAL SYSTEM through SMALL MECHANIZATION INPUTS

Saharan oases are a highly artificial ecosystem that has proved to be economically viable for centuries, despite its’ fragile equilibrium. The pillar of this ecosystem is the good management of the palm grove, which allows the establishment of a three-layer structure and of a microclimate favourable for agriculture. Nowadays oases ecosystem is at risk, endangered by climate changes and economic and social factors and the poor management of the palm grove, caused by lack of human and material resources, is the main cause of its’ collapsing. The introduction of small mechanization can provide tools to invigorate this farming system and attract young people in the agricultural sector.