Cork Oak in the Maamora Forest (Morocco): Updating its Distribution and Optimizing Cork Productivity for Sustainable Development

Abstract

In order to optimize cork productivity in the Maamora forest, specifically in the northern part of the A, B, C, D, and E cantons, the study focused on the analysis and updating of the distribution of productive cork oak (Quercus suber L.) stands as well as the evaluation of cork production over the past two decades.For this purpose, the available maps were corrected and updated using GPS data and field surveys between 2019 and 2022.Similarly, a thorough examination of the archives related to cork harvesting from the water and forestry administration was conducted and enriched by data collection during the survey.The obtained results indicate that the productive area is approximately 39% of the total area in the study zone.Simultaneously, statistical data has highlighted significant fluctuations in the annual gross cork production, coupled with a concerning decrease of 21.29% during the second rotation.Indeed, during the second rotation, 30% of the productive area was not harvested, compared to approximately 14% during the first rotation.Similarly, only 59% of the productive area underwent two harvest cycles.Despite these fluctuations, the recorded productivity during the second rotation, at 0.68 stere/hectare/year, remains above the national average.The differences between cantons are also noteworthy, emphasizing the impact of local factors on cork harvesting.In this context, ensuring sustained cork productivity while ensuring the sustainability of vegetal capital against climate change requires the implementation of an adaptive management approach.