The 2025-2026 agricultural campaign in the Casablanca-Settat region is set to flourish, buoyed by significant rainfall recorded since November. These climatic conditions have revitalized the regional agricultural system, especially after several years characterized by drought.
According to a statement from the regional agricultural directorate, the enhanced rainfall has led to a marked improvement in the vegetative state of crops and the regeneration of grazing lands. Additionally, the precipitation has improved the availability of water resources, particularly through the increased filling rates of reservoirs and the replenishment of aquifers.
Exceptional Rainfall Boosts Agricultural Output
As of March 6, the region has recorded a cumulative rainfall of approximately 458 millimeters, with variations among different provinces. Notably, Benslimane province has experienced some of the highest levels, averaging 742 millimeters. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous agricultural season, with a remarkable 214% rise during the same period, surpassing the average of a normal agricultural season by about 55%. Such favorable climatic indicators are expected to have a direct positive impact on regional agricultural production.
Successful Implementation of the Autumn Crop Program
Thanks to the favorable weather conditions observed in November and December, the region has achieved nearly 100% completion of the planned autumn crop program, covering an estimated total area of about 963,320 hectares. Autumn cereals play a pivotal role in the region's agricultural production system, with nearly 852,555 hectares sown, also nearing 100% of the initial target.
Furthermore, forage crops have been planted across more than 81,490 hectares, which represents approximately 90% of the anticipated program. In addition, around 52,246 hectares have been earmarked for spring cereals. The sugar beet cultivation has also seen a positive trend, with the program realized over a surface area of 9,200 hectares, achieving 102% of the intended area in the El Jadida and Sidi Bennour provinces, which are vital agricultural hubs for vegetable production.
Regionally, the area dedicated to autumn vegetable cultivation has reached about 17,440 hectares, exceeding expectations with a completion rate of over 107%. Key crops in this category include potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. Winter vegetable crops have also surpassed initial goals, achieving a completion rate of 109% over more than 18,130 hectares, while spring vegetable crops are planned for approximately 8,105 hectares.
The recent rains have positively affected grazing lands, alleviating pressure on livestock feed and reducing feeding costs for herds. This situation coincides with the implementation of the national herd reconstruction program launched by the Ministry of Agriculture, which includes direct support for livestock farmers to enhance the sustainability of animal production and improve national herd productivity.
In this favorable context, the regional agricultural directorate of Casablanca-Settat continues to provide local support to farmers in collaboration with various sector partners. Technical services encourage farmers to fully leverage the current climatic conditions by adopting several agronomic interventions. These include preventive treatments with appropriate phytosanitary products to combat potential fungal diseases that may arise from humidity, particularly in cereal and legume crops.
Farmers are also advised to apply supplementary nitrogen fertilization at appropriate developmental stages to stimulate growth and enhance yields. Additionally, weed control is recommended as a vital measure to maintain crop productivity, with agricultural services advocating for a judicious use of herbicides while respecting the correct dosages and timing of applications.
As reported by lnt.ma.
