UNESCO includes Moroccan typical argan forest in world biosphere reserve network
Morocco, Environment, 4/29/1999

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has included the Moroccan Argan forest in the World Biosphere Reserve Network.

The move is a world recognition of the importance and originality of the Argan tree, a typically Moroccan plant, Moroccan Water and Forests Minister Saeed Chbaatou said at the inauguration of the reserve.

The 2,500,000-hectare reserve, one of the largest in the world in terms of tree concentration, will help ensure the best conditions for a harmonious and lasting development in the region.

Environment state secretary, Ahmed Iraqui, hailed the recognition of the argan tree as a universal patrimony and called for matching development concerns with environment protection.

A UNESCO representative underlined that the argan reserve is a perfect illustration of the importance of biosphere reserves.

The argan tree grows primarily in the semi-arid area of southern Morocco, but faces extinction as a result of desert encroachment.

Some 2,000 years ago, trees covered 1,200,000 hectares of Morocco. Today the trees cover only 823,000 hectares.

The Argane is a hardy survivor, able to protect itself from hazards of nature. During long periods of drought, it reduces its nutritive needs by rapidly dropping its leaves. With the first drops of rain, the tree grows new leaves and resumes its natural cycle, bearing date-like fruits which provide fodder for sheep and an edible oil for humans.

Argane oil, known as Arganeia Spinosa, is used in the production of a variety of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The tree produces high-quality wood, used by Essaouira (southern Morocco) craftsmen, known throughout the world for their craftsmanship.

Previous Stories:
  Deer reserve dedicated in Middle atlas   (3/25/1999)
  Morocco and USA to enhance cooperation in water and forest management   (2/25/1999)
  Book on Moroccan typical tree published in Belgium   (1/16/1999)

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