Author : Keopheth Phoumphon

Summary : Through an interview schedule, primary data were gathered from 94 farmers in both lowland and upper watershed. The geospatial technology were used to assess land use and land use change in both lower and upper watershed area and to describe the biophysical and socio-economic drivers of change. Specifically, the study aimed : to examine the bio-physical characteristics of the study area and characterize the land use change that occurred in the watershed; to analyze the perceptions of the farmers on watershed conditions and management; to discuss and analyze the factors effecting the land use change in both upland and lowland cultivation in the irrigation systems; and to recommend improvements for sustainable watershed management.Perception of representatives from institutions that have jurisdiction over the area influence land use change in the upper watershed. While the irrigation sector has direct responsibility over the reservoir and the use of its water, the forestry and defense sector have control over the watershed area. In addition, the financial sector has responsibility over land use taxation. The varying perceptions of representatives from these sectors led to different land uses in the watershed. The information system management in the watershed needs to be improved. Cooperation among agencies involve is the key element for sustainable watershed management. Increase community participation in watershed management should be considered. The water harvesting need to be studied so that the results will be used for water resources use planning in the future.