Availability and integration of agro-environmental data: The French case

Abstract

This chapter addresses collection and integration of large amounts of data from a variety of sources when developing agronomic approaches at the landscape and territory levels. Data commonly used in agro-environmental studies are climate, soils, land cover and land use (including cropping practices). They are used as inputs for indicator-or model-based assessment methods. Additional information is now required for agroecological studies, such as spatial distribution of weeds, pests, and diseases; biodiversity; or landscape features. Gathering and using this scattered and heterogeneous information for integrated studies at watershed, regional, or national levels still requires further methodological efforts. Remote sensing is a source of data that continuously progresses in spatial and temporal resolution, and accessibility. Such integrative approaches are illustrated for a case study in France. The next challenges and opportunities for data collection, integration, and governance are discussed, with a focus on mainland France.