Integrated development of outdoor activities in the Ifrane National Park to promote biodiversity conservation (IFRANE)

The Ifrane National Park (PNI) is set in one of the most remarkable landscapes in Morocco, with a high concentration of Atlas cedars – globally important ecosystems – and over 24,000 animal species, 11% of which are endemic. However, agro-pastoral and livestock activities co-exist with forestry and tourism in the region, leading to multiple pressures on this natural heritage, so resulting in the need for initiatives to preserve the biodiversity. The PNI has been chosen as a pilot site for implementing the Moroccan Forests 2020-2030 strategy, which aims to promote the national parks through responsible tourism and outdoor activities. The FFEM is lending its support to developing a form of ecotourism that benefits both biodiversity and local populations.

The project has 3 components:

• Instigating a virtuous circle for the conservation of ecosystems and habitats, by reintroducing species historically found in the park and protecting them by harnessing the dynamic of the outdoor activities which finance the conservation process.
• Organising and developing responsible and sustainable outdoor activities in the Ifrane National Park, in tandem with French national parks and local communities, and ensuring on-going communication between Morocco’s national parks.
• Making nature-based sports a driver for local development, integration and social advancement in the disadvantaged mountain areas.

• Consolidation of ecosystem knowledge and scientific monitoring to raise stakeholder awareness.
• Implementation of exemplary biodiversity initiatives to enhance the park’s appeal.
• Obtaining additional financing from the ecotourism industries and promotion of public/private partnerships promoting biodiversity.
• Capacity-building among regional stakeholders for the sustainable implementation of ecotourism activities.
• Formulation of an ecotourism development charter focusing on nature-based sports.

Supported by the FFEM, this project is the first in Morocco to make the link between sport and outdoor activities, and the conservation, management and promotion of protected mountain areas, while seeking long-term financing for biodiversity.

With high potential for replicability, both methodologically and in terms of additional financing for biodiversity conservation, this pilot programme heralds a long-term commitment to the extensive and managed evolution of ecotourism throughout Morocco’s national parks. The project will also directly benefit the communities within the Ifrane National Park by offering new activities to complement the more traditional ones, with particular attention being given to gender equality.