Perceptions and responses to rising salinity intrusion in the Mekong River Delta: what drives a long-term community-based strategy?

Abstract

This study analyses data on perceptions of the adverse impacts of salinity intrusion on rice farming in the Mekong River Delta. Collected from interviews with the head of 441 households and several focus group meetings, the data is used to provide an understanding of current adaptation or coping strategies and, from the insights gained make recommendations for the management of this increasing challenge. We find that most households are concerned about the impact of salinity intrusion on their livelihood and their capacity to cope in the future. Some strategies are already failing and many many farmers will struggle to adapt in the medium-term. Censored generalised Poisson regression and negative binomial regression models are used to identify and test the effectiveness of alternative management strategies. The results suggest that farmers have a preference for the construction of dykes as a means to prevent salinity intrusion. We conclude that farmer willingness to support the construction and improvement of dykes can be improved by providing more information and training.