Plateau de Sault karst system (France)

Integrated geological, geophysical, and hydrogeological studies have revealed the structure, extent, and recharge areas of the karst aquifers on the Sault Plateau. Multi-tracer approaches have been used to characterize groundwater flow and the connections between recharge areas and the main karst springs. This work has made it possible to quantify a significant groundwater resource and to identify areas with varying levels of vulnerability, thereby providing a basis for the sustainable management of groundwater resources.

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.