The Karen people have a reputation for conservation, and for considering the future of their resources. Approximately 10 years ago, some far-sighted people – NGO’s, churches or whoever – introduced the concept of Protection Zones into Karen-populated areas of Mae Hong Son province. Since then, many Karen riverside villages have put in place 2 – 5 km zones alongside the village. No fish may be taken from these zones! As a consequence of this, fish stocks in these zones have increased exponentially, therefore helping to continually re-stock adjacent sections of the river.
A fundamental problem that many village have, especially in remote valleys, is lack of income. In some cases, people may earn as little as 3000 baht (<US$100) per annum. Put this in the context of being 150kms from a hospital in areas where malaria, dengue fever and typhoid are endemic… and living without electricity, with roads impassable in Wet Season…
These heavily-stocked Protection Zones offer a chance for poor villages to generate some fishing dollars… and the high-value eco-tourism proposal we made to remote communities was an offer to pay fairly for access to these zones, on the condition that we operate Fly Fishing Only, Catch & Release trips.
Karen assistants in traditional dress, with fishing guide Bobby Kaotokol
That provides an opportunity to generate some income in a sustainable manner for each village in the program. In addition we employ as many local staff as possible on a daily basis, at double the Thailand minimum wage. All in all, its a “win win” situation for everyone, villages and anglers included!
