The governance of socio-ecological interdependencies: The Landes du Médoc water catchment area controversy

The supply of drinking water to metropolitan areas has long been considered a local issue inserted in a network based on territorial interdependencies. The city needs water to anticipate its demographic growth. The issue of water supply for human consumption highlights the interdependence between Bordeaux Métropole and its functional rural areas of the Landes du Médoc catchment area. This chapter proposes a socio-historical analysis of the socio-technical controversy surrounding this infrastructure project since its emergence some 20 years ago. It explores the historical vulnerability of the water supply of the Bordeaux Métropole. The chapter examines the uncertainties of scientific advances in the hydrogeological modeling of water resources and requirements. It then explores local controversies on the potential ecological impacts of water withdrawals on silviculture.