Perceptions of the local community on the outcome of community fishery management in Krala Peah village, Cambodia

Abstract

Since fishery resources are regarded as an important source of income and food security, these resources need to be protected and conserved for sustainable use. To do this, the government of Cambodia has revised its policies, shifting management and responsibility to the local level. In response to government policy, Krala Peah village community fishery was established to manage resources within the area. The purpose of this study was to assess the outcome of community fishery management. Moreover, community fishery management was assessed through face-to-face interview and a participatory approach. The major findings of this study indicate that community fishery has led to a more equitable and efficient fishery within Krala Peah village. Although it has not led to improvements in fishing habitats and fish catch, it has reduced some factors that adversely affected sustainability. Furthermore, it has caused a reduction in illegal fishing, which was the main objective of the fishers.

Keywords:

• management performance
• equity
• efficiency
• sustainability
• Ramsar site

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Mr Kham Phan and his family for offering accommodation in the study site and facilitating the field survey; Mr Chuob Phalla, Mr Chhom Nheb and other Krala Peah villagers for cooperating during the survey; and Mr Touch Vannarith and government and non-government officers who actively supported and collaborated with us during the study. We are grateful to the Swedish International Cooperation Development Agency (Sida) and Wetlands Alliance Program (WAP) for research funding.

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