France launches CASI plan to address agricultural drought crisis

French Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard has introduced the CASI plan (Climate, Adaptation, Drought, Fires) to support the agricultural sector following exceptional summer droughts. While the government has allocated 1.2 billion euros for the plan, agricultural groups like the Confédération paysanne argue the amount is insufficient compared to existing annual subsidies for mechanization and methanization.

The CASI plan includes a 235 million euro “agricultural rearmament fund” managed by prefects. In Saône-et-Loire, this translates to approximately 2.07 million euros aimed at farms in economic difficulty, market gardeners, and recent new farmers. However, critics note that for the 82% of farms without insurance, national solidarity compensation only triggers after 50% losses, providing a relatively low indemnity.

In response to the perceived inadequacy of national aid, the Centre-Val-de-Loire region has announced a 4.5 million euro relief package. President François Bonneau stated that 2.5 million euros will serve as emergency aid—prioritizing new farmers and fire victims—while 2 million euros will support long-term investments like storage and livestock building adaptations.

Minister Genevard is also conducting field visits to the Hérault department to meet with sheep and wine producers to discuss water management and the critical state of various agricultural sectors.