Plateau de Sault Karst System (France)

Integrated geological, geophysical and hydrogeological investigations revealed the structure, extent and recharge areas of the karst aquifers of the Plateau de Sault. Multi-tracer approaches characterized groundwater circulation and the connections between recharge zones and major karst springs. The work quantified a substantial groundwater resource and identified areas of contrasting vulnerability, providing a basis for sustainable groundwater-resource management.

Location map

Key findings

The karst aquifer system was delineated and its recharge areas identified.
Geological, geophysical and hydrogeological investigations, combined with the KARSYS approach, established the structure and extent of the main karst systems and their recharge zones.
Multi-tracer investigations revealed the organization of karst groundwater flow.
Geochemical and isotopic tracers were used to characterize groundwater circulation and connections between recharge areas and major springs, including Fontestorbes and Font Maure.
The work quantified a substantial groundwater resource while highlighting its vulnerability.
The study showed that the Plateau de Sault contains significant groundwater resources, generally of good quality, but that vulnerability to contamination varies strongly according to the geological and recharge context.