The Sahara
The KNMI (weather Institute) in the Netherlands:
Morocco is one of the few areas in the world where a clear trend towards lower rainfall has been recorded in the past century. Because of this it is The expectated that the Sahara will move towards the north. Efforts to combat the problem, prove inadequate. Between 90 and 93% of Morocco is affected by various forms of drought. Everyone in the country is called to cooperate and to combat desertification. The oases areas in Morocco are threatened and destruction is a major problem. Through climate change and the cutting of trees and vegetation, the soil is left exhausted and the sand takes over.

Mhamid El Ghizlane Mhamid El Ghizlane is the most southern village on the river Draa in Morocco. The road along the Draa, from the town of Ouarzazate to Mhamid, is one of the most beautiful routes in Morocco. Here we find beautiful Kasbah villages, oasis of date palms, the pre-Sahara region with fantastic mountains and finally the Sahara. It was 10 years ago that water from the river Draa flowed to Mhamid. Because of low rainfall and a dam that was built in the north, is massive water shortage is now in areas such as Mhamid.

Desertification
Now desertification has become a threaten to the desert villages like Mhamid. One way to prevent desertification is planting trees that thrive in difficult circumstances. The root structure of the trees enable that little bit of water to be absorbed and eventually make it easier for plants to grow in the immediate vicinity of the trees. The tamarisk is an example of such a tree. This tree is suitable to grow in the area Mhamid but because the villages are poor, money is not readily available for this kind of project.

Tree planting
To help with the problem of desertification Sahara-Roots Foundation has started tree planting projects. Through various donations it is now possible to plant trees together with the villagers. There is also the possibility for tourists to plant a tree. If you would like to plant a tree yourself whilst visiting the area of M'hamid please contact Saharia Services on the lefthand side just as you come into M'hamid. The villagers take care of the trees when you're away. 

If you are not able to visit but would like to donate a tree please send your donation, together with your name and address, to the bank account of Sahara Roots. It is also possible to contact us through the "CONTACT" page. These trees are 10 euros per tree. Would you like to help us by donating a Groasis Waterboxx ?  For 25 euro we will be able to place a waterboxx with 2 trees in de area of M'hamid.

Prices include: 

1. preparing the land, such as cleaning the area, levelling the grounds (taking away excess sand) and digging the hole for the tree and palm leaves
2. buying the baby tree
3. buying palm leaves, which are needed to protect the tree from donkeys, goats and camels who want to eat it
4. providing water for about half a year and ensuring that the water supply is secured and the water wells are properly maintained
5. tree maintenance for an average of half a year, such as taking care of repairs after a storm
6. buying and preparing nametags for the sponsors to be attached to each individual tree
7. supervising children from the Mhamid area who will help in taking care of the trees, thereby building a better appreciation for their natural environment.

Travelling to the area of project
It is possible to travel to the areas where the projects of Sahara Roots take place.
The tours can be booked individually or in groups and it is possible to walk around the area or participate in a trekking in the Sahara.
These tours are conducted in the spring and autumn because the weather in this period is appropriate.
During a visit to this area you can plant your own tree.
For more information about the various options you can contact Valerius Reizen in Amsterdam (020 6730773) or visit: www.valerius.nl                    or visit: www.magischmarokko.nl