Fund expanded for agricultural water projects

In 2026, the French Ministry of Agriculture renewed its agricultural hydraulic investment fund, increasing its total amount to sixty million euros—tripling its previous value. The fund supports modernization and creation of hydraulic infrastructure primarily for agriculture, as well as funding for engineering studies before construction begins. Aid can cover up to 80 percent of costs for collective projects.

Occitanie receives significant funding

The region of Occitanie was initially allocated 9.775 million euros from the fund, with an additional 4.3 million euros added for structuring projects, bringing the total to over 14 million euros for 2026. This amount represents nearly a quarter of the national fund's total allocation for that year.

Seventeen projects selected across eight departments

Fabrice Rigoulet-Roze, prefect of Occitanie, selected 17 agricultural hydraulic projects across eight departments. These projects aim to secure water supply for several hundred farms, addressing critical needs in the region's agricultural sector.

Major projects highlighted

Two notable projects include the Agly pipeline, which connects canals and irrigation systems in the Pyrénées-Orientales. Prioritized by the Prime Minister and the Water Plan, this project is expected to receive nearly 8.4 million euros in aid, providing water access to nearly 300 agricultural operators. Another key project involves the first phase of modernizing the Cuelas network between Hautes-Pyrénées and Gers, led by Rives & Eaux, which will benefit from nearly 1.6 million euros in state aid.

Fund has supported 23 million euros in aid since 2024

Since the agricultural hydraulic fund was established in 2024, state aid in this area has reached 23 million euros. The French government continues to work closely with the regional agricultural chamber and its president, Denis Carretier, to ensure farmers in Occitanie have better access to water resources.