Remeandering and restoring a natural water course for climate adaptation in France

Key Learnings

• Nature-based Solutions support resilient agricultural ecosystems: Restoring naturally shaped watercourses helps rivers recover their natural functions and improves groundwater infiltration, helping agriculture adapt to the effects of climate change.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Bringing together local organisations, farmers, researchers, and local authorities is an important aspect in establishing a Nature-based Solution project. Drawing on local knowledge improves water management in Nouvelle-Aquitaine by aligning river and wetland restoration with regional conditions and capacities.

Summary

Historic landscape modifications for human development, combined with the threat climate change poses nowadays, are threatening the Marais Poitevin wetland. Flooding, droughts and changing precipitation patterns make it difficult to cultivate one of Europe and France’s most important agricultural landscapes. In response, an array of Nature-based Solutions, such as remeandering and restoring the natural water cycle, contribute to the adaptation efforts in the Novelle-Aquitaine region. Involving multiple stakeholders enables the development of tailored solutions adapted to certain circumstances. The actions foster climate change adaptation and contribute to biodiversity protection, one of the area’s most valuable assets besides agricultural production.

Contact

Yohana Cabaret: NBRACER regional coordinador: Yohana Stupar-Cabaret | LinkedIn

Paco Lefrançois: NBRACER projet manager for the Marais poitevin: Paco Lefrançois | LinkedIn