Current status of oxbow lake (baor) fisheries andbarriers toits management: cases form south-western Bangladesh

Abstract

Oxbow lake (baor) is one of the important freshwater fisheries resources in Bangladesh which supports livelihoods of about 70,000 people. This study assessed the current status of two baors (Jhapa baor and Perkhajura baor) fisheries and identifies the barriers to their management in Jessore in the south-western Bangladesh in 2015. This study used primary data collected using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods including household interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs) and oral history interviews as well as secondary data. Results of this study did not show improved socio-economic conditions of the baor fisheries dependent households. Their incomes were less than the national average. Most households had single earning member and many of them relied on micro-credit organizations for credit. Most did not have land except homestead and their houses were earthen made. Although most of them had access to safe drinking water, few had access to quality health services andsanitary latrine. Their education levels were very low – 70% fishers had no or below primary level education. Although currently most of their children are school going (72% in Jhapa and 62% in Perkhajura) and their percentage is increasing gradually. This study also found that both aquaculture and capture fisheries are present in both baors. Only lease holders had access to culture fish harvesting while anyone was eligible to catch the capture fish as common property resources. This study further found a range of climatic, social, institutional and economic barriers to baor fisheries management. Key climatic barriers were flood, changes in rainfall pattern and siltation. Main social barriers were poaching, restriction to fishing, conflicts between fishersand leaseholders, and lack of education. Main institutional barriers were unfavorable baor leasing system, high leasing money and negligence of local fisheries officers. Finally low income of fishers’ households was identified as the main economic barrier. To overcome these barriers a multi-sectoral approach needs to be taken.