Participatory Workshop on the Future of Abandoned Farmland in Pays Cœur d’Hérault
The first multi-stakeholder workshop of the SPADES project for the Pays Cœur d’Hérault pilot case took place on 3 October 2025 in the village of Le Pouget. The workshop brought together a wide range of local stakeholders to discuss the future of abandoned farmland in the area and start a joint co-construction process. This event concluded a six-month diagnostic study involving various local actors.
Around 30 participants attended, including residents and citizens, elected officials, representatives of local authorities, agricultural and environmental institutions, and researchers. Together, they:
- Built a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities linked to abandoned farmland.
- Identified the key actors involved in decision-making.
- Clarified the roles each actor could play and how they might be affected by future changes.
A photo exhibition complemented the discussions. Based on interviews with local stakeholders, it presented the diverse – sometimes conflicting – views and perceptions surrounding abandoned farmland. The exhibition guided visitors through seven key themes:
- What is abandoned farmland?
- Abandoned farmland: natural and health risks
- Abandoned farmland: a threat to biodiversity and landscapes?
- Abandoned farmland: risk of misuse
- Abandoned farmland: potential for different types of agriculture
- Unused plots? Abandoned farmland as a resource for local uses
- Abandoned farmland: spaces for social innovation
This workshop marked an important step toward collaborative planning and highlighted the value of engaging local communities and stakeholders in shaping the future of abandoned farmland.
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