Geological heritage in the M'Goun geopark: A proposal of geo-itineraries around the Bine El Ouidane dam (Central High Atlas, Morocco)

The surrounding area of the Bine El Ouidane dam in Central Morocco, has significant potential for the development of geotourism due to its historic, geological, biological, and cultural heritage. However, these valuable resources, constituting a real opportunity for sustainable development of the local economy, remain ignored and underexploited by decision-makers. This work aimed to overcome this gap by identifying and selecting remarkable geosites in the area of the Bine El Ouidane lake, and then by proposing itineraries that help promoting this mountainous area. Two geoitineraries were developed based on the accessibility, touristic attraction and trekking opportunities. Eight highly attractive sites were highlighted according to their geological characteristics, scientific and contextual interests, and relevance. All these geosites present scientific interesting topics regarding sedimentology, stratigraphy, paleontology, magmatism, structural geology, geomorphology, hydrogeology, and karstification, belonging to the central High Atlas post-Variscan sedimentary and structural evolution. These sites can constitute a tool for the development generating work for the inhabitants to ensure their sedentarization.