Résumé
Olive cultivation stands as a cornerstone of Northern Morocco's economy, yet its sustainability faces mounting threats from escalating droughts attributed to global climate shifts. Initiated since the late 1990s, government initiatives such as the 'Plan Maroc Vert,' aim to optimize olive production systems and bolster their resilience to climate change by promoting irrigated systems and resistant olive varieties. This study seeks to broaden the perspective by exploring how olive farmers themselves navigate environmental challenges and adapt to evolving conditions, shedding light on the effectiveness and constraints of governmental interventions in the olive sector.Conducting semi-structured interviews focused on environmental constraints and farmers' coping mechanisms, we engaged 47 farmers across two villages in the Bni Qolla commune, Ouezzane province. This diverse sample encompassed various olive cultivation systems, from traditional grafted trees inherited through generations to newer plantations spurred by government subsidies.Foremost among the environmental challenges voiced by farmers were the detrimental effects of the east wind (charqi), heatwaves, the Euphyllura olivine disease exacerbated by fog and humidity, and the lack of precipitation. Farmers identified landscape, field, and tree-level strategies to mitigate these constraints. At landscape level, they observed differences in olive tree resilience based on soil type and topography. At field level, they mentioned shallow tillage, livestock management, and irrigation to combat drought. Finally, at tree level, they considered that grafted trees and olive landraces were more resistant than planted trees and selected varieties. They also mentioned time and financial resources as key constraints that often hindered the implementation of strategies like tree pruning and pest control.The insights gleaned from farmers underscore the potential value of adaptive strategies complementary to existing governmental programs. Notably, this study highlights the overlooked potential of grafted orchards and native olive landraces in the context of climate change, suggesting avenues for further research and support beyond current policy frameworks. In conclusion, this research emphasizes the importance of integrating farmer perspectives and practices into broader agricultural strategies to enhance the resilience of olive cultivation in the face of evolving environmental challenges. By leveraging indigenous knowledge alongside government initiatives, the olive sector could better navigate the complexities of climate change and sustainably thrive in Northern Morocco.