Effective Water Resources Management for Communities in the Chi River Basin in Thailand

Abstract Using the participatory action research methodology (IPAR) method, the input and knowledge of different stakeholder groups is an ongoing process to establish best water user practices to allocate limited resources. Ongoing studies are being held for barrier and flood prevention solutions, integration of competing water user sectors, and evaluation of customary practices and rules. The establishments of updated regulations are necessary for the future enforcement so that water allocation and management is effective and fair for all users. This article addresses effective and fair water resource management regulation (EFWRMR) for water user organizations in the Chi River Basin in Thailand. The development of water resource management regulations of water users organizations are based surveys, analysis, and development of regulations through methodologies and research from organizations and users which broadly include water users, households, community leaders, government agencies, NGOs, other institutions and organizations characterized as Integrated Participatory Action Research (“IPAR”). Using the IPAR methodology, the study compiled information form a comprehensive survey. Topics included problems floods and droughts, and water and solutions such as developing water reservoirs along the natural swamps, other storage capacities and water management. Legal experts were consulted legal experts were consulted on water management, the current state of the ecological community, and draft governmental regulations.