Culture and Ecotourism Management of Dams in North-eastern Thailand

This qualitative research examines the culture and ecotourism management of three North-eastern Thai dams. Using methods of survey, observation and interview, the research team identifies ten areas of ecotourism management in the area: food, location, administration, transportation, souvenirs, surrounding environment, waste disposal, customs, sports and safety. Although efforts are being made to manage waste and tourist activities, the research finds that five principal problems remain with management of the surrounding environment: deforestation, litter, construction, traffic, and water contamination. Additionally, there are problems with inadequate tourist facilities and insufficient staffing during the high festival seasons. To address the five problems with the park areas, there are five individual solutions: reforestation, stronger waste disposal management, more control of building, regulation of noise and emissions from vehicles and monitoring of dam water quality.