An integrated coastal zone management initiative for sensitive coastal wetland on either sides of The Moulouya Estuary in Morocco

AbstractThe project, funded under SMAPIII program (Small and Middle Action Plan) of the European Union, encompasses over 40-km coast on either sides of the Moulouya estuary in Morocco.The site shelter important biodiversity features, and is classified as protected areas. The project aims at integrating the conservation of these sensitive areas with local, sustainable development by encouraging dialogue and planning at local, regional and national levels.The projects create a space for dialogue and planning through the animation of working groups and a local steering committee for the relevant stakeholders (e.g. local communities, local non-governmental organisations, private businesses, and administration). The outcome of these working groups will be formalized with a signed moral contract called “Contrat de l’Espace Littoral” by all the relevant stakeholders.The contract will summarize a common vision for their territory and make recommendations for coastal management. Alternative economical micro-actions, aiming at improving community livelihoods, are also developed in the site. Additionally, the project has provided training and technical assistance to monitor changes in the coastal zone, setting up social, economical and ecological indicators.Additional studies were implemented to determine the causes and consequences of the key risks. The studies contribute to creation of future scenarios that will be necessary for the “Moral Contract” and Management Plan. Interdisciplinary working groups were formed around key themes including: pollution, natural resources, income generating activities, etc. Using the information from the studies, the working groups laid out a management framework for each theme. Training and experience sharing is an important element of this project. The different local, regional and national stakeholders have taken part in trainings on conflict resolution, sustainable tourism, income generating activities, monitoring and indicators, and Geographic information Systems. Awareness campaigns have also been carried out at all levels promoting the sustainable development of the coast.The moral Contract is the primary of the project and the key for the projects sustainability. Il creates a real engagement from the relevant stakeholders to ensure the implementation of management plan