Inventory and assessment of geoheritage in Guelmim province-Morocco for geoeducational and geotourism use

The geosites of Amtoudi, the oasis of Asrir, and the oasis of Taghjijt, along with their associated ecosystems, represent the main heritage of the province of Guelmim (Morocco), which should be maintained in an optimal ecological and geological conservation state wherever possible. The main objective of this research is to identify, quantitatively evaluate, and assess the value of the most outstanding sites of geological, ecological, and cultural interest in the province of Guelmim (Morocco), with a view to their recognition and preservation as heritage in the face of anthropogenic and natural processes. The main heritage values identified are its geological and ecological importance, its cultural heritage, its potential for geotourism and geoeducation, and the need for conservation and sustainable management. Eleven sites have been proposed for consideration as geological heritage and exhibit a wide variety of geological typologies. The study draws on Brilha (2016) methodological framework to systematically evaluate geosites according to four main value. The results of the quantitative assessment show that the scientific value of all eleven sites is very high. The potential for educational use is very high at six sites, while the potential for tourism use is very high at these same six sites. On the other hand, the risk of degradation was calculated as moderate or high in most cases. The quantitative approach used for the various sites confirmed the positive qualities attributed to the area. This data demonstrates that the region's geoheritage and geotourism are relevant enough to be used for scientific, geoeducational, and tourism purposes, as well as for geoconservation.