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Restoring groundwater to secure river flows in the Garonne Basin

  • 65%

    of the Garonne’s water in the region supports 70 different agricultural activities.

  • 8-10 hm

    8-10 hm3 of water filtrated into the alluvial aquifer to recharge the groundwater table

  • 2023-2027

    implementation timeline

Replicability

Scaling up groundwater recharge in alluvial river systems

Best suited for

This approach is particularly suitable for river basins with connected alluvial aquifers where groundwater and surface water exchanges naturally occur. It is most relevant in regions experiencing recurring droughts, declining summer baseflows and rising water temperature stress, especially where agriculture, ecosystems and urban water demand depend on the same hydrological system.

Stakeholders' role

The model relies on a multi-stakeholder governance system combining regional and local authorities, water agencies, farmers, researchers, landowners and citizens. This collaborative structure is critical for negotiating water allocation trade-offs, ensuring acceptance of reuse options and embedding solutions into existing water governance frameworks. 

Built-in scalable tools

The nature of the approach allows for the gradual expansion of infiltration zones along the river, enabling modular and site-specific replication without major system redesign. Stakeholder and citizen engagement, particularly in water reuse, supports acceptance, reduces conflicts and enables wider uptake across the basin. 

Funding pathways

Pilot actions are funded through Horizon Europe, while scaling up is enabled by integrating solutions into regional water management and climate adaptation plans, unlocking access to national and EU funding and supporting long-term investment.