By Phongnarin Sukcham / E-WMSA Project
Bueng Jon: A Water Source and a Way of Life
With areas covering over 164 rai or 262,400 square metres, Bueng Jon is a public water resource under the care of Wang Won Sub-district Administrative Organisation. The reservoir plays a critical role in the lives of villagers from Phitsanulok and nearby Sukhothai.
Bueng Jon irrigates over 3,000 rai (4,800,000 square metres) of farmland, sustains livestock, and supports home vegetable gardens. During the flood seasons in May-October, it serves as a natural reservoir that absorbs excess water from the Yom River’s old canal. During the dry season, farmers use it for crops and animal husbandry, following community agreements to maintain the water level for freshwater fisheries. Phitsanulok Provincial Fisheries Office periodically releases fish species such as tilapia, giant catfish, and snakehead fish to ensure sustainable use of the fishery resource.
The Role of Women in Managing Bueng Jon
Suwimon Cherdchu, a female farmer and water user from Wang Won Sub-district, shares her perspective on Bueng Jon, a place she has known since childhood. To her, it is more than an agricultural water source—it is a community hub.
“Bueng Jon stores water for rice farming and provides livelihoods. Villagers can fish here, and the area around the reservoir is also used for exercise and relaxation,” she said.
She believes that women have an important role in preserving and improving this shared space—not just as users but as active contributors. “We want everyone, regardless of gender, to participate in using and maintaining this resource. If we work together and share ideas, we can achieve great things,” she added.
Community Collaboration for Sustainable Development
Managing Bueng Jon requires collective effort. In addition to local farmers, the Royal Irrigation Department assists in clearing invasive plants like water hyacinths, which can obstruct water circulation.
“When excessive weeds are detected, the irrigation department deploys machinery to remove them, ensuring that the reservoir remains usable,” said Weerapong Deemit, village head of Moo 7, Baan Wang Nam Bo.
During the harvest season approximately from November to late February, farmers use the nearby drying area to sun-dry their rice under clear skies. Afterward, they gather at the pavilion to rest, share meals, and enjoy a moment of respite from the heat.
Looking ahead, Bueng Jon has the potential to become an eco-tourism destination and a center for community recreation. Plans include boat races, floating food stalls, and tourism development that could generate income for local welfare programs.
“If successful, the revenue from tourism will help develop the village and improve community services,” Weerapong added.
Empowering Women, Strengthening Communities
To celebrate the International Women’s Day 2025 based on the theme #AccelerateAction, Suwimol and the case of Bueng Jon highlight the importance of women empowerment and capacity building, essential for strengthening farmers smallholders and local communities.
Suwimon and other water users, regardless of gender, exemplify resilience, collaboration, and innovation in preserving their community. When women receive support, they become key drivers of development at the family, community, and societal levels.
Bueng Jon stands as a testament to inclusive participation. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, recognizing the value of nature and collective responsibility is essential to ensuring that this vital water source remains sustainable for generations to come. ■
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