Co-Design Ecological Masterplanning: Insights From the Moroccan Oases of Abaynou and Targua N’Touchka

Abstract

Abaynou and Targua N’Touchka are Moroccan oases landscapes, historically shaped by ancestral water systems, spring-fed irrigation, permaculture traditions, and long-standing agro-cultural practices. Today, both sites face accelerating pressures from climate change, water scarcity, ecological degradation, and shifting socio-economic conditions. Recognising their cultural significance and ecotourism potential, the Moroccan government has initiated masterplans and pilot projects for their revitalisation. This paper examines their shared environmental, socio-cultural characteristics, critically evaluates the planning approaches adopted in both cases. Through field assessments, spatial analysis, and participatory workshops. The masterplans articulated community priorities such as rehabilitating irrigation networks, improving public areas, and regenerating agro-forestry systems Results indicate that small-scale, context-sensitive interventions, combined with community-led ecotourism, can strengthen local livelihoods while preserving cultural identity. The paper argues that integrating ecological restoration with traditional knowledge offers a robust framework for regenerating oasis environments and demonstrates the value of participatory design in guiding sustainable development in vulnerable environments.