The “Crab Bank” Project: Lessons from the Voluntary Fishery Conservation Initiative in Phetchaburi Province, Thailand

Abstract

In this study, the interactive governance framework was applied to examine factors contributing to the implementation of “crab bank” projects (a voluntary conservation program) implemented in Ban Panern and Ban Klongthian fi shing villages in Phetchaburi province. Using key informant interviews and participant observation, the ‘step zero’ or the pre-implementation stages of the projects were examined and the study assessed what characteristics of the natural and social systems associated with the fi sheries, of the governing system, and of their interactions that may contribute to successful implementation of the crab bank project. The results showed that Ban Panern followed a more collaborative process in establishing the crab bank, with fi shers actively involved. The high diversity of the system-to-be-governed and high level of interactions in Ban Panern contributed positively to the successful implementation, making governability high. On the other hand, Ban Klongthian struggled to maintain the project due to the low collaboration from fi shers and too much reliance on the leaders. Moreover, the project was introduced by the government, and fi shers were not directly involved in the early discussion. Overall, active participation of fi shers in conservation projects such as the crab bank needs to be encouraged, along with improving positive interaction among fi sheries stakeholders.