The Role of Local Administrators in Developing Water User Organizations through Community Participation in Najak Subdistrict, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province
Keywords:
local administrator role, water user organization, community participation, water resource management, Iddhipāda 4Abstract
This research aimed to: (1) study the roles of local administrators in developing water user organizations through community participation; (2) analyze the community participation processes contributing to the successful establishment and development of these organizations; and (3) propose guidelines for enhancing administrative effectiveness in Na Chak Subdistrict, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province. A qualitative case study approach was employed. Data were collected from 45 key informants through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, and document analysis. Data trustworthiness was verified through triangulation. Findings revealed that: (1) local administrators perform seven crucial roles—policy formulation, participation support, resource allocation, network coordination, monitoring, good governance, and the application of Iddhipāda 4—functioning effectively as both "Facilitators" and "Boundary Spanners"; (2) a five-stage participation process led to the establishment of two water user organizations comprising 245 member households, achieving equitable water allocation and conflict reduction; and (3) enhancement guidelines encompass five dimensions: personnel development, participation mechanisms, appropriate technology, partnership networks, and sustainability through community water funds.
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