Guidelines for developing participation in water management. Case study of underground water bank Ban Don Kho, Village No. 2, Na Riang Subdistrict, Phrom Khiri District Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Abstract

This research article aims to study the guidelines for developing participation in water management, Case study of underground water bank Ban Don Kho, Village No. 2, Na Riang Subdistrict, Phrom Khiri District Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. This qualitative research utilized interviews as the primary research tool. The key informants were selected through purposive sampling, comprising 16 individuals, including community leaders and current users of the underground water bank. Data were collected and analyzed descriptively. The research findings revealed that the underground water bank is used to provide water for household consumption and agriculture, helping to alleviate drought and flood problems. The following are the guidelines for participatory water management of the underground water bank: 1) “Collaborative Decision-Making” Involves participation in decision-making starting from brainstorming and coordinating efforts to create a water bank that benefits daily life. 2) “Shared Investment” Includes shared costs in terms of budget, human resources, and natural resources, which are used to maintain the underground water bank. 3) “Consensus Building” Participation in building consensus or agreements with the villagers and other stakeholders through democratic decision-making processes. 4) “Shared Benefits” Involves community participation in integrating or applying the underground water bank concept for livelihood purposes, such as using water for household consumption and agriculture. 5) “Collaborative Evaluation” Includes ongoing monitoring and evaluation throughout the implementation of the underground water bank, which has received positive feedback due to the clear benefits obtained.