Impact de la gestion de ressources en eau sur la dégradation des sols

Abstract

This dissertation analyzes the impact of water management on soil quality in the arid regions of the Maghreb, with a specific focus on the Sétif province. Although irrigation is meant to enhance agricultural productivity, when it is poorly managed (absence of drainage, water excess, use of saline or wastewater) it becomes a primary driver of soil degradation. Identified Problems:  Soil Salinization: Accumulation of salts at the surface, particularly in irrigated areas lacking effective drainage.  Accelerated Water Erosion: Increased runoff and soil loss due to inadequate practices (deforestation, cultivating on slopes, etc.).  Soil Compaction: Hardening of surface layers caused by heavy agricultural machinery and overgrazing.  Loss of Fertility: Leaching of nutrients and uncontrolled intensification of agricultural practices leading to diminished soil fertility. Regional Study: The dissertation examines the cases of Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria, where watermanagement policies remain focused on resource mobilization (dams, boreholes) at the expense of long‐term sustainability. The absence of drainage, inefficiencies in traditional irrigation systems (such as gravity‐flow irrigation), and institutional fragmentation further exacerbate the problem. Case of the Sétif Province: The Sétif region is experiencing increasing water pressure coupled with inadequate resource management. Soil salinization, erosion, nutrient depletion, and the economic inefficiency of irrigation are particularly acute here. The study also highlights weaknesses in local policies, lack of coordination among stakeholders, and insufficient reliable data.