Geological heritage of the Taguelft syncline (M'Goun Geopark): Inventory, assessment, and promotion for geotourism development (Central High Atlas, Morocco)

Abstract

The Taguelft syncline, located south of the Béni Mellal city, is one of the synclinal basins of the central High Atlas. It contains significant geological heritage that should be inventoried, valorized, and protected. The present study aimed to inventory and evaluate the syncline's geological heritage and then propose geotourism and geodidactic promotion allowing their sustainable geoconservation. This is done by applying the University of Lausanne methodology, based on the quantitative and qualitative assessment of the scientific (considered central) and additional values. Results highlight geodiversity elements with high scientific (≃0.84) and aesthetic (≃0.85) values related to the strong representativeness of the regional geological phenomena (genesis modes of magmatic bodied, tabular structure of Jbel Sgat, gabbroic intrusion of the Ait Boulmane wrinkle). The assessment also shows that the study area hosts a valuable palaeontological heritage enclosing fossil wood, ammonites, and dinosaur remains (bones and footprints). Moreover, it has underlined an important cultural and architectural interest of the tribe of Ait Sokhmane. Taken together, the diverse geological and cultural heritage identified can constitute a valuable tool for geoconservation and geotourism purposes. Due to their high touristic and educational potential, the geosites of the syncline are a preferred tourist destination for many visitors and can serve as valuable educational excursion sites for the dissemination of geosciences through different tools such as interpretation panels, digital media, leaflets, and guided tours. This exceptional geodiversity, and the rich cultural heritage, constitute a support for the development of geotourism and a tool for reinforcing local socio-cultural development. The knowledge and understanding of the different facets of the geological and cultural heritage as well as the management and planning of these resources all contribute to sustainable and developed tourism.