The Taounate region has experienced significant rainfall over the past few weeks, contributing to the improvement of the water table and revitalizing agricultural activity. According to data from the Regional Directorate of Agriculture, the average rainfall in the region reached 380 mm, with peaks recorded in areas like Ain Aicha, which recorded 460 mm, and Tahr as-Souq, with over 400 mm.
Thanks to these rains, plowing operations began at a good pace, with the area cultivated in the region reaching 327,160 hectares, achieving more than 94% of the set targets. These areas were divided between rainfed agriculture, which covered 324,120 hectares, and irrigated agriculture, which covered 3,040 hectares, reflecting the positive role of rainfall in supporting agricultural production.
The Taounate region ranks first in the Fes-Meknes region for cereal production, accounting for 31% of regional output. The areas planted with cereals reached 211,170 hectares, divided between soft wheat with 15,000 hectares, hard wheat with 2,900 hectares, and barley with 2,100 hectares.
There was a noticeable expansion in the cultivation of food legumes, with the planted area reaching 18,850 hectares, reflecting the growing interest in these crops due to their nutritional and economic value. Additionally, forage crop cultivation improved, with 9,780 hectares planted, including 9,680 hectares of rainfed agriculture and 100 hectares of irrigated crops.
Direct seeding technology continues to spread in the region, with 20,000 hectares planted using this technique, achieving more than 95% of the set target. This progress was made possible with the support of the Agricultural Development Fund and the provision of more than 45 direct seeding machines through partnerships with agricultural institutions such as “Mutamir” and “Turba.”
In addition to the rainfall, the filling of dams has contributed to improving the water situation in the region, further enhancing the water reserves necessary to support agricultural activities. According to Mouloud Al-Hawi, the Regional Director of Agriculture, these rains will have a positive impact on the cultivation of cereals, legumes, vegetables, and fruit trees, which bodes well for the upcoming agricultural season.
Thanks to these favorable climatic conditions, the Taounate region has allocated 260,000 hectares for cereal cultivation this season, compared to areas ranging from 200,000 to 220,000 hectares in previous years. The Regional Directorate of Agriculture has also launched programs to support farmers, including the distribution of subsidized nitrogen fertilizers in coordination with specialized agricultural organizations.
Many farmers have expressed optimism about the current agricultural season. Abdullah Dahawi, a farmer from the Moulay Boushita El Khammar commune, stated that the recent rains will help improve agricultural production and provide fodder for livestock. Similarly, farmer Alal Kamal from the El Ghouazi commune mentioned that the support provided to farmers by the Ministry has contributed to improving productivity and yield.
Expectations indicate that the continued availability of water resources and the use of modern agricultural techniques will be crucial factors in ensuring a successful agricultural season, boosting food security, and supporting the local economy in the Taounate region.
Source: Fes News Media