Introduction: The oasis of Ouargla has economic, ecological, and social significance, and it has very significant groundwater potential. At the same time, it is facing conditions that may cause its degradation, even its disappearance. This study aimed to identify these constraints and propose an effective and sustainable solution to these problems. The second objective of this study was to propose an oasis production system which will enable the valorization of water resources, sustainable socio-economic development, and the preservation of the environment.
Method: This is a descriptive and analytical study that was conducted using a survey and measurements of soil, irrigation water, and phreatic aquifer water.
Results: The soils of the Ouargla Oasis are sandy in texture (85% sand) and very salty (electrical conductivity of 3.56 dS/m), and they have very low organic matter content (0.25% organic matter). The phreatic aquifer is very salty (electrical conductivity of 30.13 dS/m) and very shallow (96.16 cm deep). The date palm uses the uppermost layer, which it shares with a few other crops. The irrigation technique practiced is submersion with inefficient drainage.
Conclusion: To preserve Ouargla Oasis against degradation by salinization and waterlogging of the soil, and in order to preserve water and increase farmers’ incomes, it is necessary to practice rational water management and crop diversification.