THE POTENTIAL OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS IN MANAGING EXTERNALITIES: CASE STUDY OF BAN DUNG SALT FARMING AREA, BAN DUNG DISTRICT, UDON THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

This article aims to 1) study the role of local administrative organizations in managing impacts from salt farms, 2) study the potential of local administrative organizations in managing the problem of impacts from salt farming, and 3) propose guidelines for local administrative organizations in increasing their management potential. Qualitative research was used, with five purposive informants selected. Data were collected through structured interviews.

The research found that local administrative organizations play a key role in overseeing, issuing regulations, and communicating with the public to mitigate the impacts of salt farming on the environment, communities, and the economy. The organizations capacity is reflected in their ability to develop regulations that comprehensively govern all aspects of salt farming operations, establish standards for impact mitigation, and implement systematic monitoring and evaluation processes In addition, the proposed recommendations for enhancing the capacity of local organizations include: developing participatory communication networks with communities, strengthening the competencies of local officials, and utilizing evidence-based data to inform proactive policy-making.