Oued Loukos Dam

The Oued Loukos Dam, also known as the Barrage de Garde (Guard Dam), is a crucial hydraulic infrastructure located in the lower Loukkos valley near Larache. Unlike traditional storage dams, this regulating dam's primary function is to prevent saltwater intrusion from the Atlantic Ocean into the river, protecting the fertile agricultural lands of the 'Bas Loukkos' perimeter. It also helps regulate water levels for irrigation, supporting the region's intensive farming of red fruits and sugar beets. The dam is an essential component of the Loukkos Hydraulic Basin's management, balancing the needs of agriculture with the preservation of the nearby Ramsar-protected wetlands.