Morocco has approximately 9.5 million hectares of forest cover, representing about 13% of the country's total land area. These forests are distributed across several biogeographic zones: the Mediterranean mountains (Rif, Middle Atlas, High Atlas), the Atlantic coastal plains, and the pre-Saharan regions.

Moroccan forests are characterized by remarkable biodiversity, with over 100 tree species and countless endemic plants. The main forest types include:

• Cedar forests (Cedrus atlantica) – endemic to Morocco and Algeria
• Cork oak forests (Quercus suber) – concentrated in the western Rif and Atlantic plains
• Argan woodlands (Argania spinosa) – endemic to southwestern Morocco
• Holm oak and evergreen oak forests (Quercus rotundifolia, Q. ilex)
• Pine forests (Pinus halepensis, Pinus pinaster)
• Juniper woodlands (Juniperus thurifera, J. phoenicea) – in high mountains and pre-Saharan zones

Moroccan forests are managed by the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), which oversees conservation, reforestation, and sustainable use programs.

The Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica) is an iconic tree species endemic to the mountains of Morocco and Algeria. In Morocco, the largest cedar forests are found in the Middle Atlas, particularly in the Ifrane, Azrou, and Bou Iblane regions. These forests are among the most extensive cedar woodlands in the world, covering over 130,000 hectares.

The Atlas cedar can reach heights of 40 meters and live for over 1,000 years. These forests are of immense ecological, cultural, and economic importance. They regulate water flows, protect soils, and provide habitat for the endangered Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus), the only wild primate in Africa north of the Sahara.

The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is an endemic species found almost exclusively in southwestern Morocco, covering an area of approximately 800,000 hectares between the Atlantic coast and the Anti-Atlas mountains. The argan forest is a unique ecosystem that has been recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve since 1998, and the traditional knowledge of argan cultivation was inscribed on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2014.

Argan trees are exceptionally resilient, surviving in semi-arid conditions with deep root systems that prevent soil erosion. They can live for 150–200 years. The tree's fruit produces argan oil, a globally valued cosmetic and culinary product. Argan oil production is traditionally carried out by women's cooperatives, providing economic empowerment for rural communities.

The argan forest supports unique biodiversity, including the Barbary ground squirrel (Atlantoxerus getulus) and numerous bird species. It also plays a crucial role in combating desertification and maintaining water tables in the Souss region.

Cork oak (Quercus suber) forests cover approximately 400,000 hectares in Morocco, primarily in the western Rif mountains, Mamora forest (near Rabat), and the Atlantic plains of Kenitra and Casablanca. These forests are economically important for the sustainable production of cork, which is harvested every 9–12 years without harming the trees.

The Mamora Forest (Forêt de la Mamora) near Rabat is one of the largest cork oak forests in Morocco, covering over 40,000 hectares. It is a vital recreational area for the capital region and supports diverse wildlife including wild boar, rabbits, and numerous bird species. However, urbanization and agricultural expansion have significantly reduced its extent over the past century.

Cork oak forests are also important for honey production, with beekeeping being a traditional activity in these woodlands. They provide essential ecosystem services including water regulation, soil conservation, and carbon sequestration.

Morocco's forests are remarkably diverse. Key additional forest types include:

Morocco's forests are home to remarkable wildlife, including several endemic and endangered species.

Morocco has established a network of national parks and nature reserves to protect its forest ecosystems. Key protected areas include:

These parks are managed by the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) in partnership with local communities and international conservation organizations. Many parks offer hiking trails, visitor centers, and ecotourism opportunities.

Morocco's forests face significant pressures that threaten their ecological integrity:

• Climate change & drought: Increasing temperatures and prolonged droughts have weakened trees, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. The Atlas cedar has shown signs of decline in recent decades.
• Deforestation & overgrazing: Unsustainable logging, land conversion for agriculture, and heavy grazing by livestock (particularly goats and sheep) have reduced forest cover and prevented natural regeneration.
• Forest fires: Each summer, wildfires burn thousands of hectares of forest. Climate change and human activities have increased fire frequency and intensity. The 2022 fires were particularly devastating.
• Urbanization & infrastructure: Expansion of cities, roads, and tourism facilities fragments forest habitats and increases human-wildlife conflict.
• Invasive species: Introduced species can outcompete native vegetation and alter forest ecosystems.

Conservation efforts: The Moroccan government, through the ANEF, has implemented ambitious programs:

• Forest Law 2020: Strengthened protection and sustainable management frameworks.
• Reforestation program: Planting millions of trees annually, including native species like cedar, oak, and argan.
• Fire prevention & response: Improved surveillance systems, firebreaks, and rapid intervention teams.
• Participatory management: Involving local communities in forest stewardship and sustainable resource use.
• International partnerships: Cooperation with the UN, WWF, and other organizations on conservation projects.

The future of Morocco's forests depends on balancing conservation with sustainable development. Key initiatives include:

Morocco's forests are not only ecological treasures but also vital for water security, climate resilience, and rural livelihoods. The commitment to sustainable forest management will determine whether these "green lungs" can thrive for future generations.