In 1999, we were introduced to the marine park by Thailand's Royal Forestry Department and found it disappointing that a new MNP had little funding to implement any of its management conservation and local outreach programs. What we discovered at that time was that there is little community awareness of the park and its efforts, and that there is a general lack of support towards conservation development especially from the coastal fishing communities. Without broad community support, a local marine protected area will encounter numerous problems trying to achieve its objectives. Many people in Chumphon's neighboring communities believe that park restrictions have a negative economic impact on them.
Even the best laid out plans coupled with the best environmental intentions can lead to community discontent and conflict. With a lack of communication and interaction among the immediate community and government authorities, there is bound to be conflicts of interest. Currently, there is a very small percentage of the Chumphon community that either is aware of the marine protected area in its region, or wants to acknowledge the fact that it is there.
Education can broadly influence behavior and solicit support towards the Marine National Park Division in Thailand. As education becomes more prominent within the park systems, there is more room for understanding between the community and the park authorities. Mu Ko Chumphon has developed a marine interpretation center for the educational use of local schools. Although the interpretation center has a few maps, displays, shell collections, slide presentations and videos, its aquarium has been left idle for 2 years as the funding for its maintenance fell through.
General Info
e-mail: info@coastalpursuits.com
Scott Stevens, Director
e-mail: scott@coastalpursuits.com
Yvette Jong, Program Coordinator
e-mail: yvette@coastalpursuits.com
Last Updated: August 1st, 2002
Community Outreach Awareness Program
Thailand Marine Survey Course
Chumphon, Thailand
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