Small-scale fishery income impact from artificial reefs in Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province, Thailand

To evaluate the economic impact of artificial reefs on small-scale fishing community, we investigated fishers’ income and perception after 3 years of artificial reef deployment in Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province, Thailand. Ninety-two small-scale fishing households were randomly selected for survey. Half of households relied on squid fishing as a major source of income. Squid fishing contributed three-quarter of the total fishery income in this artisanal fishing community. Percentage of households having decrease in fishery income after artificial reef deployment households was 24%. While percentages of households experiencing no change and increase in fishery income were equal at 38%. Ordered logistic regression model identified that fisher characteristics such as family size, sub-district, squid fishery as the major income, fishing time, and fishers’ rest were significant factors affecting changes in fishery income. Differences in fishery income after AR program were estimated by propensity score matching method and showed that annual community fishery income has increased by 6%. Also, most of the respondents showed satisfaction toward artificial reef program in enhancement of marine resources and environment.