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Local groundwater governance in the Lower Mekong Region (LMR) is often inadequate and ineffective because of policy incoherence and lack of public participation; thus, groundwater exploitation and pollution have been accelerated in many LMR countries. Through a case study in Khon Kaen, Thailand, this study aims to assess the state of local groundwater governance (GWG) through the stakeholders’ perception by using Water Governance Framework developed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Although it is useful for the assessment at the national scale, it is still inadequate and has some limitations on the local scale. Hence, the principles were reconsidered and translated to fit the local context. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to explain the state of GWG, while confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to examine the relations between GWG indicators and GWG dimensions. The findings show that clear roles and responsibilities are have the highest performance. However, integrity and transparency are the challenges of GWG. We found that the indicators explained the effectiveness, efficiency, and trust and engagement in the GWG model. Consequently, this study contributes stakeholder involvement in GWG assessment. The findings show to policymakers and policy practitioners the current state of GWG and propose key indicators in groundwater governance assessment at the local context.

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This study aims to develop GIS and database program for ecosystem services management, environmental management and policy planning for natural conservation in the representative areas under the Integrated Community-based Forest and Catchment Management through an Ecosystem Services Approach project (CBFCM) by using Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) and Biological storage of carbon (BioCarbon) concepts. At first, the concerned data were collected by brainstorming of the needs of GIS and database program with staffs from 4 pilot areas in Thailand: Mae Sa watershed area in Chiang Mai, Lam Sae Bai River Basin in Ubon Ratchathani, Tha Chin watershed area in Samut Sakhon and Phangan River Basin in Surat Thani. Then, the situations and variables which affect to natural resources were analysed. Secondly, GIS and database program were designed and developed. However, the program can be divided into 3 sub-programs for different proposes which are; (1) to enhance coordinated and follow-up performance of change of PES and Bio-carbon concept, (2) to increase communication and training for delegate areas to understand about PES and BioCarbon concept and (3) to collect and manage data and information for representative areas.