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Casablanca-Settat: Active Agricultural Campaign with Over 800,000 Hectares of Winter Grains Planted
The agricultural campaign has resumed activity in the Casablanca-Settat region thanks to recent rains, with the area planted with winter grains reaching approximately 825,953 hectares as of February 2, which equates to about 94% of the planned target.
The regional agricultural directorate indicated that this area is divided into 340,898 hectares of soft wheat, 229,060 hectares of hard wheat, and 255,995 hectares of barley. Additionally, fodder crops have covered over 81,410 hectares, representing 88% of the planned program, while legume planting continues on approximately 45,000 hectares.
Since last November, rainfall has positively bolstered indicators for the start of the 2025–2026 agricultural season after seven years of drought, presenting promising prospects for the agricultural sector. Total rainfall in the region by February 2 reached 388.8 mm, with variations across provinces; Benslimane recorded the highest level at 597 mm, representing an exceptional increase of 364% compared to the same period last year and 83% above the seasonal average.
These rains have also contributed to improving water resources in dams and aquifers, positively impacting various agricultural and pastoral activities, with the potential for a successful season provided that the rainfall continues.
Due to these favorable conditions, approximately 92% of the agricultural program for the season has been accomplished, with the possibility of exceeding the target. Sugar beets have been planted on more than 9,200 hectares in the El Jadida and Sidi Ben Nour provinces, which are also known for their vegetable production, especially potatoes.
Regarding vegetables, the area planted in the fall reached 17,440 hectares, exceeding 107% of the planned program, and primarily includes potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. The winter production covers more than 14,260 hectares, at 86% of the program, while spring planting is expected to extend over 8,105 hectares.
The rains have also helped improve soil moisture, creating optimal conditions for sowing and germination and encouraging farmers to expand the planting of grains, legumes, and fodder, essential for livestock nutrition and supporting the regional agricultural economy. Additionally, the rains have revitalized pastures and reduced pressure on animal feeding, which boosts the income of farmers and livestock breeders within the National Program for Herd Reconstruction.
In this context, the regional agricultural directorate continues to support farmers by providing technical assistance, guidance on water management, and the use of agricultural inputs, while encouraging the adoption of agricultural practices suitable for the region. The direct seeding technique has been implemented on approximately 40,000 hectares, or 60% of the planned target, contributing to soil structure preservation, improved water retention, reduced costs, and ensuring the sustainability of the agricultural system.
