Nong District, 16 October 2025 – The district of Nong, located within the Xe Bang Hieng River Basin, is home to the Xe Lanong River, which has long served as a vital source of livelihood for local communities. Over the years, overfishing and unsustainable use of aquatic resources have significantly reduced fish populations and endangered aquatic biodiversity. Recognizing the urgent need to conserve natural resources, the district has launched a comprehensive conservation initiative in Nong Wilay and Tang Alai Nuea villages, focusing on protecting aquatic biodiversity, preserving the watershed, and strengthening community participation in natural resource management.

In the past, although the creation of conservation areas had been announced, boundaries remained unclear, and management regulations were not strictly enforced. As a result, encroachment and destruction of aquatic animals using fishing gear continued, threatening both biodiversity and the livelihoods of local people. To address these challenges, the district’s initiative aims to formalize the boundaries of protected areas, install permanent signage, and produce detailed maps that clearly mark the conservation zones. Local committees have been established to oversee the management of aquatic animals, especially fish, and to ensure that biodiversity resources are properly protected. Management rules and regulations have been officially approved and disseminated to residents and relevant authorities, strengthening community awareness and participation in sustainable conservation efforts.

The project also seeks to restore and maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems by increasing the abundance and diversity of fish and other species in natural water sources. By empowering local communities to actively engage in conservation and providing clear guidance on the sustainable use of aquatic resources, the initiative aims to promote environmental stewardship while supporting sustainable livelihoods. The effort reflects a holistic approach to biodiversity conservation, integrating ecological protection with community-driven management and public education.

Through this comprehensive initiative, Nong District demonstrates its commitment to long-term sustainability, ensuring that rivers, aquatic ecosystems, and biodiversity continue to support the well-being of local communities. By formalizing conservation areas, establishing management structures, and raising awareness about biodiversity protection, the district is building a foundation for resilient and sustainable natural resource management that will benefit both current and future generations.

Contact for Further Information:
For media inquiries, please contact:
Phouphet Chittaphone, Database and Communication Officer, IWRM-EbA Project
Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment
Email: [email protected] Tel: +8562058562532