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L’agriculture biologique (AB) s’inscrit dans la montée en puissance de régimes de production agricole plus durables. L’objectif de cette recherche est d’analyser son développement dans les territoires ruraux en tant qu’innovation territoriale qui s’inscrit dans une diversification du système agricole existant, offrant les caractéristiques d’une spécialisation intelligente (SI). Il s’agit d’éclairer un paradoxe relatif aux capacités locales de ce type d’espaces souvent présenté comme peu innovant. La recherche s’appuie sur une étude de cas unique, le Gers, premier « département bio » de France. Des entretiens semi-directifs ont été réalisés avec un ensemble de parties prenantes territoriales et ont fait l’objet d’une analyse de contenu thématique. Les résultats mettent en avant des dynamiques fortes d’ancrage de l’AB dans le territoire, soutenues tant par les acteurs institutionnels qu’économiques. Pour autant, il existe une diversité de visions de l’AB qui peuvent se révéler un frein à son développement en tant qu’innovation territoriale.

Organic agriculture is part of the rise of more sustainable agricultural production systems. The objective of this research is to determine the extent to which the development of organic farming in rural territories constitutes a territorial innovation that is part of a diversification of the existing agricultural system, offering the characteristics of smart specialization. This research aims to shed light on a paradox relating to the local capacities of this type of area. On the one hand, these territories are often considered as less innovative because of their low density and the lower technological intensity of the industries. On the other hand, the characteristics of rural areas suggest specific innovation capacities, with greater recourse to personal links and an important place for local resources. The research is based on a unique case study, the Gers department, the first "organic department" in France. 25 semi-directive interviews were conducted with a panel of territorial stakeholders. Interviews were the subject of a thematic content analysis. Five main findings emerged from this research. First, it was the farmers who initially supported the development of organic farming and not other local economic and institutional actors. Secondly, it is essentially local networks and resources that have enabled the growth of organic farming in the department. We also observe a real intentionality of local public policies to support organic farming. This territorialization of organic farming is based on a demand from consumers outside the territory. Finally, there is a diversity of visions of organic agriculture that may hamper its development as a territorial innovation.