Permanence and impermanence of landscapes: a study of the changing relationship between societies and water in coastal wetlands

Atlantic coastal wetlands, once productive areas, are now protected for their natural character. They are now facing new challenges as sea levels rise. By reconstructing the landscape trajectory of the Payré estuary and marshes (Vendée, France), this paper first identifies the drivers of change that have produced landscape heritages that are now protected. Secondly, the analysis of water management evolution characterises the renewal of hydrosocial cycles. In the past, water was productive; today two hydrosocial cycles are coexisting. One is promoting water as a source of biodiversity through ‘ecological’ management, but also as a commodity through the development of green tourism. The other emphasises ancient practices that give the site its identity. These two hydrosocial cycles coexist because of the hybrid nature of this site and the attachment to landscape heritages.