Clash between city and countryside

Mirjam writes*

Munich’s drinking water is known for its high quality, largely thanks to its geographic location near the Bavarian Alps. About 75% of the 330 million liters consumed daily comes from the Mangfall Valley, south of the city, which has served as Munich’s water source for over 130 years. However, this reliance has led to an enduring conflict with the local community of Miesbach.

Despite the exceptional water quality – so pure it requires chlorination on only a few days each year – Munich plans to expand the water protection zones in Miesbach to add a third zone. The city refers to legal obligations and the need to secure water quality for future generations. Thinking long-term is crucial, especially given the natural water cycle: in the Mangfall Valley, it takes about 20 years for rainwater to percolate through the ground before being extracted. This means that changes in the use of fertilizers or pesticides might impact the water quality only decades later.

Resistance from the Miesbach community

Farmers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders in Miesbach oppose the proposed protection zone. If implemented, the zone would further restrict the use of fertilizers and pesticides, as well as complicate the approval process for construction and industrial projects.

However, it’s worth noting that cooperation between Munich and local farmers has been ongoing for years. Since 1992, the Munich City Utilities (SWM) have supported farmers in transitioning to organic agriculture. To date, over 185 farms have adopted sustainable practices. In return, they receive financial assistance and support in marketing their products.

Still, tensions persist. To block Munich’s plans, Miesbach community members recently launched a petition calling for a review of the city’s historical water rights that were granted in 1852. These rights, still invoked by the SWM, are seen as outdated by Miesbach residents, especially since the construction of a connection tunnel in 1924 increased water extraction. Threfore they argue that the law should be reevaluated.

In early November 2024, the Bavarian State Parliament’s environmental committee accepted the petition, signaling progress for the Miesbach community. However, the review of these historical rights could delay any decision on the new protection zone – to the frustration of environmental groups.

A broader debate: balancing urban and rural interests

The conflict over Munich’s water supply reflects a larger issue: how to reconcile urban resource security with the interests of rural communities and environmental conservation. With projections suggesting that by 2050, approximately 70% of the global population will live in urban areas, and with water scarcity expected to increase due to climate change and human impacts on ecosystems, disputes like the one between Munich and Miesbach may become increasingly common.

Finding solutions will require balancing the needs of urban populations with respect for rural livelihoods and ecosystems. The challenge lies in creating policies that protect the environment and secure resources for future generations while ensuring fairness for all parties involved.

Bottom line: The dispute over Munich’s water supply rights and water protection regulations highlights the growing tension between urban needs and rural rights, a challenge that will likely intensify as climate change and urbanization progress.

* Please help my Water Scarcity students by commenting on unclear analysis, alternative perspectives, better data sources, or maybe just saying something nice 🙂