Typology of the Surface Water Quality of the Aguelmam Sidi Ali Wetland (Midelt-Morocco)

Despite the recognized state of conservation of RAMSAR sites, the Aguelmam Sidi Ali wetland, especially the pastoral stratum, is frequented by users and over-staffed livestock, thus affecting the quality of its surface waters and therefore the ecological value of the site. In order to evaluate and spatialize the extent of the impact of pastoral over-exploitation of the site, this study aims to monitor the spatiotemporal variation of the water quality of the Aguelmam Sidi Ali pastoral stratum. The assessment of the quality of water resources of the pastoral stratum was monitored monthly at 7 sampling stations, during a hydrobiological cycle from January to December 2017, using physicochemical and bacteriological parameters. A typology of the water resources quality of the pastoral stratum have been elaborated according to the dynamic water quality index (DWQI) and the significant statistics tests. Indeed, the use and the state of pollution of the water resources could identify three spatial subsets. The first is of poor quality with a WQI < 50, the second is of average quality with a WQI of 50 to 70 and the third is of good quality with a WQI > 70. These results confirm that overgrazing and the anarchic use of the wetland by users have a negative impact on the ecological functions for which the site. To overcome these challenges, measures must be taken as a partnership approach with users, incorporating innovative ideas such as mobile dry toilets could protect the site and improve the daily lives of the population.