The analysis of ecotourism as dynamics in common property management: A case study of Plai Phong Pang Thai-Style House Conservation Club, Tambon Plai Phong Pang, Amphoe Amphawa, Samutsongkhram Province

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the patterns of management of common property and tourism by Plai Phong Pang’s Thai-style house conservation club. The analysis applies the conceptual framework of dynamic common property management (Oakerson, 1992) and the eco-tourism principle (Gail Nash, 1997, referred in Yos Santasombatr and others, 2004) to explain change and tourism resource management patterns as a community based common property. This research applies qualitative research methods by conducting a descriptive analysis according to Oakerson (1992). The factors under study are resource patterns, utilization rules of each resource, internal and external factors affecting the decision-making structure, relationship patterns among community members, and the results of common property management. Finally, the researcher expects to see a changing pattern and adaptation in common property management in the Plai Phong Pang community. The researcher collected data through the methods of non-participant observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. This study found that there are three changing phases of tourism resource management as a community common property; during the 1st phase (1999 - 2002) tourism activity had been introduced to the community but was not highly prevalent at that moment. During the 2nd Phase (2002 -2006) tourism in the area was very high. There were a higher number of tourists and those who utilized common properties during this period. And for the final phase, the 3rd phase (2006 until now), more investors in resort building came to Plai Phong Pang and the nearby sub-districts in Amphawa. The analysis according to the four factors of Oakerson (1992) found that (1) tourism resources were open for free utilization and the rate of utilization seems to be higher. (2) the rule of common property utilization in the district is not clearly functioning through negotiation and the community information process. Additionally, the rule of the marine transportation department is also functioning to control the environmental impacts from motor boats. (3) Sub-district members are living together in agricultural society. All of them are living as kin. However the individual living style is starting to gain more influence in the area. (4) When the results of tourism resource management as a common property in Plain Phong Pang sub-district was compared with the principle of eco-tourism according to Gail Nash (1997), it was found that recently the tourism management of the local conservation club has shifted away from eco-tourism concept due to a lack of awareness and avoidance of the following factors: environmental impacts, saving funds for preservation, distribution of benefits among community members and the nearby communities, and a proper management according to the natural surroundings based on sustainable resource management.