This research aimed to: 1) study the characteristics of the community common-pool resources management of the mangrove forest among 3 communities in Muang and Laem Ngob Districts, Trat Province according to the philosophy of sufficiency economy, 2) study the significant conditions facing these communities, and 3) propose a new model for community common-pool resources management following the philosophy of sufficiency economy. The research was conducted on the basis of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary qualitative research design, consisting of research techniques including: documentary research, interviews, oral history, in-depth interviews as well as participatory and non-participatory observation.
The findings from the study revealed that there were 3 characteristics of community common-pool resources management of the mangrove forest which were: 1) institutional common-pool resources management, 2) utilitarian common-pool resources management, and 3) ecocultural common-pool resources management. All three communities employed the philosophy of sufficiency economy in a tangible manner in 5 aspects according to the characteristics of 3 loops and 2 conditions, consistent with all 8 dimensions of the common-pool resources theory of Elinor Ostrom. There were 10 aspects of important conditions for community common-pool resources management: 1) good conscience towards community common-pool resources, 2) community capital, 3) good quality participatory process, 4) mutual rules, regulations, and agreements, 5) groups, organizations, and networks, 6) preparation of project plans and activities, 7) local wisdom and learning process enhancement, 8) adherence to good governance and living together in peace, 9) responsible leaders, and 10) support from external agencies and organizations.
