Characterisation of diversified olive and wine-growing systems in southern France

Diversified systems are associated with greater resilience and sustainability, but are currently poorly understood. The aim of the study is to identify and characterise diversified systems as alternatives to the dominant model in olive and wine growing, using the innovation-tracking method. After defining the dominant system (bibliography, local advisers), the diversified systems were identified by interviewing 28 winegrowers and 18 olive growers using them. We distinguish three types of diversification: (1) with animals on sub-plots, (2) with perennial species mainly in the row or on the row, and (3) with annual species on the inter-row. Some associations are only possible in irrigated systems (market gardening). Diversification is mainly based on an existing plantation. For farmers, innovative systems meet environmental, agronomic and/or economic objectives. The majority of farmers were satisfied with their innovative systems, but mentioned specific disadvantages (e.g., harvesting difficulties in olive growing) that could be the subject of dedicated design work to adapt existing systems. A quarter of the winegrowers surveyed had received technical support in setting up their innovative system(s). No olive grower mentioned such support. All the farmers expressed this need to improve their systems and be reassured in their practices. Setting up an exchange network between farmers would be a first solution. It is also important to build references on the associations implemented in the plots, and to develop financial aid for diversification.