Limousin Ponds: Nature-Based Solutions for Managing Droughts and Runoff

How to address droughts and runoff through Nature-Based Solutions ?

The feedback sheets developed by CDC-Biodiversité, the French UICN Committee, and the OFB as part of the Life ARTISAN project aim to inspire public and private decision-makers, planners, forest and agricultural landowners, or protected area managers interested in implementing a Nature-Based Solutions project. They offer insights into socio-economic and ecological contexts, funding sources, stakeholders, governance, implemented actions, outcomes, monitoring indicators, success factors, and recommendations.

The Limousin Ponds restoration project (2017-2050) in Bussière-Galant enhances drought and runoff management by revitalizing the wetland's natural ecological functions, which improves water retention in summer and acts as a buffer in winter, while also reducing surface water evaporation. The project has successfully restored ecological continuity, boosting biodiversity by supporting sediment flow, enabling fish migration, and enriching flora and fauna diversity. Notably, the presence of the European Otter and other protected species like the Yellow-Bellied Toad has been documented. Additionally, the project aligns with national efforts to combat wetland loss and supports local agricultural initiatives.