Catalan Sandy Coast Observatory (ObsCat)

Leucate, Le Barcarès, Torreilles, Sainte Marie, Canet, Saint Cyprien, Elne, Argelès – France

Project leader : ObsCat

Dates : 2013-2022

Classification

Risks

Solutions

Actors

Costs

Summary

The Observatory of the Catalan Sandy Coast (ObsCat) aims to develop our understanding of the evolution of the sandy coastline, and thus, the risks of erosion and marine submersion. It is a tool for knowledge and decision-making on the Catalan sandy coastline, deployed at the relevant scale of the hydro-sedimentary unit between Le Racou (Argelès-sur-Mer) and Cap Leucate. 

This initiative undertakes numerous activities such as: 

  • The observation of the coastline based on field measurement campaigns (topo-bathymetry, quantitative video monitoring, monitoring of dune vegetation, etc.). 
  • The pooling of information concerning the coastline within permanent databases (photos, videos, bibliography, cartography, etc.). 
  • The analysis of phenomena and formulation of management proposals (annual expert report, specific contributions, summary sheets, etc.). 
  • Communication and sharing of information to as many people as possible.

Actions

In its first phase, ObsCat undertakes coastal observation and monitoring activities. The objective is to improve our knowledge on dynamic processes occuring along the coast through field measurement campaigns (topo-bathymetry, quantitative video monitoring, monitoring of dune vegetation, etc.).

The second scientific field of ObsCat consists of pooling information to collect and categorize a varied range of data on the coast (photos, videos, bibliography, cartography) within permanent databases.

Finally, ObsCat undertakes phenomena analysis and outlines management proposals. In an annual expert report, BRGM summarises and interprets these data. Its expertise can also be called upon on a more occasional basis depending on climate hazards (localized consequences of a storm, for example) or a development project. The summary sheets are an effort to simplify this work while bringing management recommendations to the attention of project owners.

ObsCat is part of a communication effort. Thus, all the databases built and supplied by the observatory and its annual (or occasional) reports must be available to the largest population. ObsCat is required to disseminate up-to-date information on the dynamics of the coastal strip.

Outcomes

  • Dune restoration;
  • Experience on adaptation to climate change;
  • Mutualisation of the means at the same scale to pilot strategic studies.
  • Pooling of resources;
  • Solid financial partnerships;
  • Reliable scientific and technical partnerships;
  • Efficient animation (AURCA).

Ongoing work is being carried out to ensure that the data produced corresponds to current needs and is actively used.

Partners

Technical partners: Communes de Leucate, Perpignan Méditerranée Métropole, Communauté de Communes Sud Roussillon, Communauté de Communes Albères Côte Vermeille Illibéris, BRGM, UPVD, EID, Parc naturel marin du Golfe du Lion

Financial partners: Agence de l’Eau, RMC, Région Occitanie, FEDER

Resources