Grazing forage species to renew pastures: EU-funded analysis

This document evaluates the economic and environmental impacts of transitioning to a grazing-based forage system in France's Atlantic North region, focusing on fodder beet, fodder rape, and chicory. It highlights high potential for improved soil health, biodiversity, nitrogen cycling, and animal welfare, along with increased feed self-sufficiency. While initial investment costs are low, detailed data on authorisation, infrastructure, and working capital remain unavailable. The payback period is long, with minimal energy savings and unclear income gains from agroecological schemes. Environmental benefits are significant, but social impacts are limited, with no notable reduction in workload or engagement of younger farmers. A 2017 reference (Optialibio_Fiche_Chicoree) provides additional context on chicory systems. The analysis is based on a EU-funded study, with views expressed solely by the authors.