Abstract/Summary

This study explores how hydrological knowledge and community participation can enhance decision-making in irrigation water allocation in Cambodia’s Stung Chrey Bak catchment. Conducted under the Water Resources Management Research Capacity Development Programme (WRMRCDP), the research integrates hydrological analysis with participatory learning and action (PLA) methods. It identifies key challenges such as fragmented catchment management, inadequate infrastructure, and limited technical capacity among Farmer Water User Communities (FWUCs) and provincial departments. The study finds that while water availability is sufficient during the wet season, dry season shortages persist due to poor infrastructure and lack of coordinated planning. Hydrological data, including stream discharge and crop water requirements, are crucial for equitable water distribution and conflict mitigation. The paper recommends strengthening local capacity through training, establishing catchment management committees, and improving data collection networks. It advocates for a participatory integrated catchment management (PICM) approach to ensure sustainable irrigation and agricultural productivity. The findings aim to inform policy and practice for more effective water governance in Cambodia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64202/wp.49.201103