Climate change vulnerability of Drâa-Tafilalet oases: A survey and ground-level perspective

This research investigates the impacts of climate change on date palm cultivation in the Drâa-Tafilalet oases of southeastern Morocco, employing a mixed-methods approach that combines on-the-ground observations and semi- structured interviews with 120 date palm farmers. Field observations across three key oases document widespread hazards and effects of climate-related stress on date palms, including disrupted flowering synchronicity, increased incidence of parthenocarpy, and heightened vulnerability to pests and diseases. A survey of these 120 farmers revealed the severity and interconnected nature of these impacts. Several farmers (30% in Boudnib, 40% in Errachidia and 40% in Zagora) observed multiple asynchronous flowering cycles per year, while parthenocarpy emerged as a significant concern, with prevalence ranging from 20% in Zagora to 40% in Boudnib. While 10–15% of farmers reported inflorescence rot, a concerning knowledge gap exists regarding effective preventative treatments, with only 3– 15% of farmers employing them. Farmer surveys further revealed that wind-driven mite infestations pose a growing threat, with 50% of farmers in Zagora reporting significant issues. The research explores ways to reduce the effects of climate change through methods like creating crops resistant to climate conditions, enhancing water supply systems, combining pest and pollinator control methods, and implementing new pollination approaches. Nevertheless, it highlights the need for tailored adaptation and mitigation strategies that incorporate both scientific knowledge and local, farmer-driven insights. The study emphasises the urgency of proactive measures to address the socioeconomic consequences of climate change on these culturally and economically vital oases.