French farmers use new tech to save water

French farmers are increasingly using innovative technologies to conserve water, a pressing issue after a summer of severe drought and extreme heat. A conference in Marseille brings together over a thousand international experts on irrigation from 75 countries to discuss water management in agriculture.

Experts highlight limits of current solutions

Sami Bouarfa, a researcher at Inrae (National Institute of Agronomic Research) and one of the conference organizers, told AFP that while French farmers have improved irrigation practices through technology, these measures may not be enough to address the growing challenges from climate change.

Smart irrigation tools are being developed

Current technologies for smart irrigation include soil sensors that signal when plants need water, ensuring it is provided at the right time and in the right amount. Drip irrigation is especially effective for arboriculture, fruits, and vegetables but is less practical for large-scale crops.

New sensors and satellites improve monitoring

Companies are developing sap flow sensors for vineyards to detect plant stress that could affect production or quality. Satellites are also playing a key role, with remote sensing enabling large-scale evaluation of water resources, including the state of rivers and the water needs of plants over vast areas.

Potential for more water savings exists

Inrae estimates that irrigated agriculture in France could still improve water savings by up to 30% through technological advancements. However, this is not a complete solution to the challenges posed by increasingly dry summers.

Region-specific strategies are needed

Bouarfa emphasized the need for a broader, region-specific analysis of agricultural practices, questioning whether certain crops, such as corn, should continue to be irrigated or moved to areas where irrigation is not necessary. Irrigation for corn has decreased from 40% to 30% over the past two decades.

Irrigation varies by crop and region

In northern France, potatoes are irrigated to ensure quality and size, as industrial contracts often require irrigation for consistent processing into products like fries. Fruits and vegetables also require irrigation, though they do not consume the most water in France.

Viticulture faces a changing reality

Viticulture, traditionally considered drought-resistant, is undergoing a paradigm shift, with ongoing debates about whether to irrigate vineyards, particularly in southern France.

Agroecology may help build resilience

Bouarfa also raised the question of whether more agroecological practices could enhance soil health and drought resilience. Despite the acute drought of last summer, France remains a country with abundant water resources due to its rivers and rainfall.

Climate change disrupts water patterns

However, climate change is altering the distribution of rainfall, leading to more intense downpours followed by prolonged dry periods, creating cycles of floods and droughts. This shift in precipitation patterns is creating a form of collective trauma, as the idea of potentially having less water due to climate change is a recent concern.