Al Massira Dam, Gravity dam and Ramsar site in Settat Province, Morocco
Al Massira Dam is a gravity structure about 390 m long and 82 m high that holds back the Oum Er-Rbia River. The resulting reservoir holds more than 2.7 billion cubic meters of water and supports a diverse ecosystem.
The dam was completed in 1979 and created the second largest reservoir in the country. It was built to provide water for irrigation, drinking supplies, and electricity generation.
The dam plays an important role for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts who visit to observe water birds. Fishing here follows strict regulations that help maintain both the local fishing traditions and the protection of the natural environment.
The dam sits about 70 km south of Settat and is easily reached by car. It offers good opportunities for birdwatching and photography, especially in the morning and early evening.
The reservoir is the only nesting site in Africa for a specific gull species, supporting about 20 breeding pairs. These birds are rare in this region and make the location particularly valuable for ornithological research.
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