Abstract
This study used economic modelling and surveys conducted on Franche-Comte dairy farms to examine the general impact, and more specifically, the economic impact, of both water vole outbreaks and the application of integrated control practices. Farmers use diverse strategies to deal with water voles in this region. Four specific approaches have been identified: using integrated control practices, including the application of all the suggested methods in the "toolbox"; using chemical pesticides against moles and voles; planning ahead for vole outbreaks by adapting levels of forage supplies; and putting in place forage systems that can weather vole population cycles. Farms that do not modify their forage systems may face losses of 10,000 in gross operating surplus (GOS) per labour unit (LU) during vole outbreak years. The use of integrated control practices limits such economic losses and, more importantly, leads to a greater peace of mind.