ASSESSMENT THE IMPACT OF USING THE ALLEY CROPPING IN THE EAST OF MOROCCO

The objective of this study is to assess impact of using alley cropping as an agroforestry’s practice on productivity of fodder shrubs and barley crop. The study was carried out in Eastern Morocco (Tancherfi site). In order to diversify the productivity in the region and to meet nutritional requirement of livestock during feed gap periods, Atriplex nummularia were planted in association with barley in dry area. The vegetation parameters (shrub biomass and canopy cover) were measured during three periods (February, April and June), while the interviews with the livestock holders were conducted during June. The results show that shrub biomass and canopy cover of Atriplex nummularia were increased by 15% and 10% respectively due to the inclusion of barley. Farmers expressed their satisfaction with the use of this technique which has allowed an increase of 40% of barley grain yields. This result could be explained by microclimate created by fodder shrubs that benefited barley growth and development. As a conclusion, with active involvement of community alley cropping should be introduced in any policy related to development of pasture lands in eastern region of Morocco.