Our eyes are fixed on groundwater, at the start of spring, because their recharge period ends in a few weeks. After that, all the rain will only be used to feed the vegetation. According to the BRGM monthly report, the level of groundwater in the Territoire de Belfort is low. France Bleu Belfort-Montbéliard asked for explanations from our local experts.
A slower than average water table
The level of the Valdoie underground reserve, affiliated with Savoureuse, is not to be complained about: it is at the same level as usual at this time of year. The same cannot be said of that of Florimont, which is still low. However, there is no nothing to panic for Clément Doney, hydrogeologist at the Regional Environment Directorate of Burgundy Franche-Comté (DREAL).
“We are on a deep water table, which therefore does not react immediately to the rains that we have experienced in recent months. It recharges much more slowly.” explains Clément Doney. For now, the rains this winter have not yet had time to reach it. The deadline is estimated at 4-5 years by the scientist.
If its level is low, it is therefore not not a consequence of winter : “It is still strongly impacted by the droughts of recent years. indicates hydrogeologist Clément Doney. The rain of the previous weeks should start to arrive to the Florimont water table this summer. A more precise vision will emerge for scientists at that time.
If he continues to rain also regularly in the coming years, its level should improve according to Clement Doney.
Fear of drought still present
For the DREAL hydrogeologist, this winter’s rains had positive consequences on groundwater reserves. However, the threat drought is not not yet ruled out. “If we compare it to a bottle of water, you will be able to drink more from a full bottle than half full. However, it can be emptied in both cases. It’s a bit the same principle.” explains Clément Doney.
Having high water levels allows us to resist longer, but that does not mean that there will not be a drought.
If the Florimont water table is protected by its depth, this is not the case of that of Valdoie. “It reacts much more quickly to weather variations. If we experience major periods of drought, this water table will no longer be replenished so it will be able to lower more quickly as well. says Clément Doney.
The reserves of our Terrifortaine groundwater also supply us with potable water.
