Innovative Climate-Smart Wheat Varieties Combat Drought in Morocco
As Morocco grapples with a severe drought that has persisted for six years, scientists are stepping up efforts to alleviate the crisis through the development of climate-smart wheat varieties. The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) is leading this initiative, focusing on creating drought-resistant strains that promise higher yields compared to traditional crops. According to predictions by the World Resources Institute, Morocco is expected to face 'very high' water pressures by 2040, which underscores the urgency of these scientific advancements.
The Central Bank of Morocco has projected a staggering decline in grain production for 2024, forecasting that output could drop to 25 million quintals (2.5 million tons). This alarming decrease is attributed to the drought's effect on cultivated areas, which are expected to shrink from 3.7 million hectares in 2023 to just 2.5 million hectares. Ali Abu Saba, head of ICARDA, emphasizes the need for an integrated plan to develop seed varieties capable of withstanding such harsh conditions while boosting productivity.
Promising Developments in Drought-Resistant Agriculture
The innovative efforts at ICARDA have led to the creation of six new varieties of wheat and barley that are specifically designed to thrive in drought conditions. These climate-smart varieties not only exhibit resistance to heat and pests but also aim to enhance food security and improve the livelihoods of Moroccan farmers. Among these new strains, the 'Nashite' wheat variety stands out for its large grains and deep roots, making it particularly well-suited for water collection in arid regions. Similarly, the 'Jebel' variety is adapted for the shallow soils of the Atlas Mountains.
In addition to developing resilient crop varieties, ICARDA is also introducing advanced irrigation techniques to maximize water efficiency. The new drip irrigation systems, developed in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, significantly reduce energy consumption while ensuring effective water distribution. These innovations are crucial for small farmers who often struggle with the high costs associated with traditional irrigation methods.
As Morocco faces escalating water pressures, the combination of drought-resistant crops and efficient irrigation practices presents a hopeful path forward. Education and support for farmers in adopting these new methods will be vital in combating the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring food security for the nation.
- The ICARDA gene bank in Morocco, established two years ago, holds approximately 108,000 wild strains of cereals that have shown resilience in drought conditions. These strains were sourced from regions known for their agricultural diversity, including the Fertile Crescent and the Abyssinian highlands. Researchers are harnessing the genetic traits of these strains to develop new varieties that can thrive in Morocco's changing climate. The new varieties, including 'Shiva' and 'Asia' barley, not only promise drought tolerance but also offer health benefits due to their high beta-glucan content, which is beneficial for managing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The shift towards no-till agriculture, which retains soil moisture and organic matter, further complements these efforts by enhancing crop resilience and reducing dependency on rainfall. As Morocco's average wheat consumption per citizen stands at about 200 kilograms annually—significantly higher than the global average—the urgency to implement these agricultural innovations cannot be overstated. The collaboration between ICARDA, local research institutes, and farmers is essential for the success of these initiatives.
