The Gourougou volcanic massif (northeastern Morocco) is actively prospected for bentonite deposits. Five bentonites originating from different environments were selected for the present study: hydrothermal alteration of obsidian perlite glass inside the volcanoes themselves (Providencia and Tribia deposits); alteration of pyroclastic flows in a marine shallow water to lagoonal lacustrine environment (Ibourhardayn deposit); ash falls in marine or lacustrine systems (Moulay Rachid and Melg el Ouidan (formerly Camp Berteau) deposits). All of these bentonites were probably formed from volcanic glass originating from a rhyolitic magma at different stages of differentiation as shown by slight variations of REE and incompatible element abundances. The crystal-chemical characteristics of the smectite vary according to alteration conditions: beidellite predominates in hydrothermal systems, whereas montmorillonite predominates in lagoonal and lacustrine environments, and mixed-layer beidellite-montmorillonite in the sea-water-altered pyroclastic flows. All these dioctahedral smectites exhibit a heterogeneous distribution of charge as shown by the presence of partially expandable (1 EG) or non- expandable (0 EG) layers in the K-saturation state. The proportion of the collapsed or partially expandable layers is not related to the average layer charge or to the cation exchange capacity. This militates for an overall heterogeneous charge distribution. Compared to other natural or experimental alteration systems of similar rhyolitic glass, the formation of beidellite or montmorillonite appears to be controlled by the amounts of Mg in the system.
The Pleistocene Fluvial-lacustrine of Ait Hajji Formation is located in South East of Tiddas, and in the Quaternary deposits of the Moroccan Central Plateau. These outcrops represent on a geomorphosite of great importance for the study of geological heritage, and for a natural eco-tourism valorization in Morocco. For to aim a natural tourism promotion, for indigenous peoples, this geomorphosite in question has an fluorescent and dense flora with a diversified fauna in the heart of one Ordovician quartzite bar and Devonian limestone ridges. In Oued Boulahmayel geomorphosite contains a memory geological Formation of a Pleistocene episode, beginning firstly by a dynamic fluviatil land synchronous with a local volcanic activity (Phonolite nephelinc) replaced by a lake sedimentation related to the formation of a dam natural, created a few hundred meters downstream from Boulahmayel. For valorizing of the hinterland of the plains towns, it is necessary to develop a geo-eco-tourism integrated who provide its harvest and will argue the benefits resources of rural people of high-mountains in their own environment. It is proposed in the perspective to initiate a sustainable development approach, while ensuring the conservation and ensure the continued natural existence of the surroundings environments and to appreciate the potential of the region. Thus that beauty hidden in the hinterland upstream to a tourist eager for discoveries, to encourage them to practice their stay as short as it is, in a safe space and very quiet. In order to materialize the concept of geo-eco-tourism, we must deploy the efforts of local people, policy makers and scientists in order to produce tourist maps with different interesting routes, to implant signal panels, to develop tracks campsites and trails within the forests, creating shelters and rest houses in private homes, as well as provide training for specialized guide's rescuers.
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