In June 2017, six months after project ended, the fishing communities we worked with are still smiling--happy that the project achieved its primary goal of restoring fish stocks.

The Balot Community Protected Area (CPA) in the Boeung Chhmar Ramsar site was the most remote of the three sites we worked in.  We were only able to establish a viable fish conservation area (FCA) after a long struggle with high levels of illiteracy and household debt, weak local institutions, and external threats, particular setting of long nets to block seasonal migration of fish into the Tonle Sap, and a severe drought in mid-2016. 

As in the other two sites, the FCA in Balot was designed to assist fish stock recovery by strictly protecting deep pools where “mother” fish congregate during the dry season.  The FCA was clearly demarcated with large wooden towers and regularly patrolled.  Establishment of the FCA was strongly supported by MOE.

In June, we went back to Balot to conduct a quarterly focus group discussion with CPA committee members.  This showed that: fish stocks are higher (as shown by the presence of bigger and rarer fish; a sharp decrease in illegal fishing inside the FCA; improved food security and health conditions, and reduced debt (most households had paid off all their debt thanks to increased fisheries income.  There is increased local economic activity: in March-April, one fish buyer bought over $15,000 of fish from local fishers and local shops are humming.

Equally important, many more local fishers are paying membership fees to the CPA committee, which now has a capital of over $500.  Members recently agree to use $60 of this pot to buy a row boat for Mrs. Sao Sean, the oldest lady in Balot, a reflection of increased community solidarity.

      Photo: CPA funds 250.000 Riel donated to older woman to buy rowing boat business © IUCN Cambodia