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RESILIENCE OF AGRICULTURAL FARMS IN THE FACE OF CLIMATE CHANGE: THE CASE OF THE TODGHA OASIS, MOROCCO
Abstract
This study investigates the adaptive strategies of farmers in the Todgha oasis, Morocco, as they respond to the pressing challenges of climate change. Through a mixed-methods approach, we assess the resilience mechanisms adopted to sustain agricultural production amidst increasing temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and shifting ecological conditions. Key findings reveal that farmers rely heavily on traditional water management systems, including khettaras and modern pump-assisted irrigation, to mitigate water scarcity. Additionally, the oasis-s date palm cultivation forms a microclimate that supports a variety of crops, underscoring the importance of agroecological diversification in local resilience. Despite these efforts, rising climate impacts have affected both crop yields and livestock productivity, prompting farmers to diversify their income through off-farm activities and, in some cases, migration. This research emphasizes the critical need for policies and investment in climate-resilient infrastructure that respect traditional practices while introducing technological advancements. Supporting these strategies is essential to ensuring the sustainability and economic vitality of the Todgha oasis in an era of climate change.
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