Paper Title
Community Participation on Wastewater Management in Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province, Thailand

Abstract
This research focused on community participation in wastewater management in Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram province, Thailand. Objectives of the research were 1) To investigate and assess quality of surface water and sewage at the sources before being discharged into main river and canals in Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram province; 2) To examine level of community participation on wastewater management; 3) To evaluate factors influencing community participation on wastewater management and 4) To investigate impediments and recommendations regarding community participation on wastewater management. The study was conducted during October 2016 – September, 2017. A number of 40 surface water samples and 40 sewage samples were collected. Water quality of the samples were assessed following the Pollution Control Department procedure. A number of 395 questionnaire interviewees were undertaken along with focus group discussions. The results showed that (1) quality of surface water was likely good with pH, DO and amount of coliform bacteria under the PCD standard. BOD and amount of fecal coliform bacteria were slightly over the threshold and very high amount of NH3 was found. Sewage contained very low DO, extremely high BOD and slightly high TKN. (2) High level of community participation on wastewater management was found on benefit receiving where moderate level were showed on planning/decision making, practicing and evaluation. (3) The villagers of Amphawa district were strongly influenced by motivation on wastewater management where moderate level was presented for management, communication and participation factors. (4) Main concerns regarding community participation on wastewater management involved regulations and standards, researches as well as wastewater treatment and sewage recycling system. Moreover, environmental conservation awareness, understanding and actions were also highlighted. Index Terms - Community Participation, Samut Songkram Province, Wastewater Management.