Using local knowledge to inform community-led marine protected area development and management in Cambodia

Understanding local users’ views is crucial for effective design and management of marine protected areas (MPAs), especially during the development of zoning and management plans. Koh Sdach Archipelago is being considered as... [ view full abstract ]

Understanding local users’ views is crucial for effective design and management of marine protected areas (MPAs), especially during the development of zoning and management plans. Koh Sdach Archipelago is being considered as a site for the establishment of a MPA in Cambodia, building on the nation’s recent momentum for MPA establishment. Currently, the archipelago is locally managed marine area managed named as Koh Sdach Community Fisheries (CFi). Most of CFi members are small-scale (family-scale) fishers who depend heavily on fisheries resources for their daily consumption. The study investigated the potential areas within the CFi boundary for potential conservation zones, fisheries refugia, recreational zones and fishing zones and identified areas threatened by human activities. Structured interviews conducted with 30% of the population indicated that the main fishing areas used by the local people are located inside Koh Sdach CFi, nearby the islands. There were some conflicting areas between fishing area (small and medium scale fishers), conservation and potential recreational areas and among potential areas for different kinds of protection and management purpose. Drawing from these results, it is important that zoning is carefully designed based on priority areas for fishing, conservation and recreation to meet the needs of the local population. In addition, ongoing and inclusive consultation with all relevant local resource users must continue to minimize conflict. This data will be combined with existing biological survey data to design a practical and adaptable management plan for the site that is based on both scientific and local knowledge.