Context

This project was initiated in light of the ongoing risk of contamination in drinking water catchment areas by agricultural pollutants. Moreover, the organic matter levels are declining in cultivated soils in regions where farming is declining. In response to these challenges, agriculture could instead become regenerative by contributing to restore the quality of shared resources such as water and soil.

Objective

The project aims to highlight the ecosysteme services provided by the implementation of this perennial crop in drinking water catchment areas, with goal of preserving water quality and restoring soil fertility. 

We assume that Miscanthus cultivation would accelerate the improvement of water quality because this perennial grass does not require chemical inputs, with the sole exception of weed control at the beginning of the crop cycle.  

Therefore, a Miscanthus field will be established in spring 2024 in the Mérobert drinking water catchment area, located near Chartres. This prioritary catchment area will be used as study site. 

Key elements

• Total cost :  1 180,8 K€
• ANR support :  688,9 K€
• Two Phd funded by ANR support
• Duration : 5 years from 01/01/2024 to 12/31/2028